COVID-19 is taking an unprecedented toll on mental health.  Numerous recent studies have shown increases in the prevalence and severity of depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and substance abuse.  According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 13 percent of Americans reported starting or increasing substance use as a way of coping with stress or emotions related to COVID-19 by June 2020.  Overdose deaths have increased dramatically nationwide since the onset of the pandemic.  The Licking County Board of Health reported 47 accidental drug deaths in 2020, the highest ever reported in the county.

The spread of COVID-19 and increase in deaths has contributed to overwhelming feelings of fear and grief for many.  Social restrictions, limits on operating nonessential businesses, and other measures to reduce pandemic-related mortality and morbidity can create a sense of isolation, further increasing the risk for mental health concerns and substance abuse.  Unemployment or underemployment also generates anxiety about finances.  As anxieties have increased, fewer opportunities to properly manage stress, such as physical activity and social interactions, are available.  The dread and panic become an easy excuse to start or increase use of medications, alcohol, or illegal substances.

For those with substance-use disorders, it is vital to seek medical treatment to prevent long-term impact of substance abuse, including accidental overdose.  For opioid abuse, medications such as buprenorphine are a key component of treatment.  Concurrent psychological treatment assists patients in adhering to the medication schedule, identifying and responding in more healthy ways to stressors that have led to opioid use, and addressing related conditions such as pain, post-traumatic stress, anxiety, and depression.  Weekly outpatient appointments might not be enough for every patient, especially those with more free time due to the pandemic.  Coordinate care with other providers as needed, focusing on adding as much structure and support to a routine as possible.

For those struggling with other mental health concerns, such has anxiety and depression, learning to cope with stress in a healthy way will assist in becoming more resilient.  While staying informed about the happenings in the community is important, it is highly recommended to take breaks from watching, reading or listening to news coverage.  Constant monitoring of news and social media feeds can quickly become compulsive and counterproductive – fueling anxiety rather than easing it.  Consider limiting media consumption to a specific period and time of day, such as 30 minutes each evening at 6:00 p.m.  If avoiding news completely would be more appropriate, ask someone reliable to share important updates.

When feeling an overwhelming fear of the future, try to focus on controllable outcomes.  The severity of the current outbreak is out of human control, but steps can be taken to reduce personal risk including obtaining sleep to support the immune system, frequent hand washing, and following recommendations from health authorities.  Being proactive and planning ahead also can assist in relieving anxiety.  Write down specific concerns and possible accompanying solutions.  Evaluate all options and construct a plan of action.  

While social distancing is highly recommended to slow the spread of COVID-19, people require social connection.  Isolation and loneliness can exacerbate anxiety and depression, and even impact physical health.  Staying connected may seem difficult; however, reaching out to friends and family will bolster mood.  Consider scheduling regular phone, chat, or Zoom dates to counteract the tendency to withdraw due to feelings of depression or anxiety.  Dispel stressful thoughts about the pandemic by focusing on positive events or happenings and sharing stories and laughs with others.

Finally, taking care of the body and spirit is essential in proper stress management.  Eating healthy meals, obtaining plenty of sleep, and meditating are all tools that assist in reducing negative thoughts and feelings.  Staying active assists in releasing anxiety, relieving stress, and managing mood.  While gym and group classes are limited, visit the many walking and cycling paths available.  Online exercise videos also offer workouts at home.  Activities such as yoga and exercises that use bodyweight can be performed without the need for special equipment.

If feelings of anxiety and depression become too overwhelming and raise concerns about turning to substance abuse, contact a healthcare provider.  Virtual and in-person treatment is available.  Licking Memorial Outpatient Psychiatric Services offers numerous programs and assistance for mental health concerns including physician services of general psychiatry.  The physicians provide comprehensive assessments, as well as ongoing treatment and medication management when appropriate.  They consult with primary care providers and specialists, and make referrals to individual or group therapy when appropriate.  For more information or a referral, call (220) 564-HEAL (4325).