In the times of Coronavirus, there are all kinds of uncertainties. Even in the best of times, people struggle with addiction, depression, and anxiety. When everything feels out of control, depression treatment may be necessary. With drug abuse a real threat to many Americans already, social isolation through quarantine is going to make coping harder. There are ways to reach out and connect, even when you have to work remotely from home. The Anxiety and Depression Association reports that approximately 20% of individuals with anxiety or depression also have a substance use disorder. When normal routines are disrupted, the potential for substance abuse is high.
Depression Treatment During a Pandemic
With COVID-19 spreading, it is causing depression, anxiety, and fear among many people throughout the world. Finding depression treatment during a pandemic might pose a challenge. Many mental health providers are participating in telehealth medicine, and you can seek treatment with a therapist when you have an internet connection. If you are feeling overwhelmed or depressed, you have to reach out to those that can help. Isolation and fear can lead to depression and substance abuse issues. There is a clear connection between depression and substance abuse, and it is necessary to rely on your support system when you are struggling.
Strategies to Reduce Mental Health Needs
Depression treatment involves a variety of strategies to help you develop better coping skills. You don’t cause depression to happen, but there are ways to minimize stressors in your life in order to keep your mental health under control. With so much going on regarding the Coronavirus, it can help to:
- Turn off the news when you find yourself growing anxious
- Walk outside if you can and take deep breaths
- Call a friend or reach out through a messaging app
- Listen to music you love and clean something in your house
- Pay attention to the things you have control over
If you already struggle with addiction and mental health needs, getting through a pandemic will take some work. Be honest with people in your life. If you are having a hard time, reach out. If you find yourself in crisis, locate a mental health treatment facility where you can become an inpatient.
Staying Strong During COVID-19
If you have investments in the stock market, stop watching the stock market constantly. Understand that life is in flux right now. Turning to drugs or alcohol is not going to improve your situation, and neither is staring at stock market fluctuations. Your resiliency right now matters. Things you can control include:
- How you react to other people online
- How much news you watch
- Your sobriety, one day at a time
- Your level of exercise and meditation
- Your compliance with the guidelines set by your county, state or country
You can stay strong, and you can get through this difficult time. When you are taking medication for anxiety or depression, talk to your treatment provider if you think you need further treatment. Do the things you can to take care of your health. Make sure you have medication on hand and work with your treatment provider if you believe you are in crisis.
Coronavirus is making it harder for people throughout the world. For those with anxiety or depression, daily coping is even harder. With the risk of addiction rising with social isolation and a lack of support, it becomes vital to your health to look for ways to connect with other people. If you need depression treatment or you are abusing substances, get the help you need to stop the spiral and find your path to health. You can contact Recovery Ways today by calling 888.986.7848.
