The Pandemic’s Effect on Depression and Anxiety

Posted at 4:13 PM on Dec 7, 2021

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With the pandemic undoubtably affecting all our lives, we have seen a steep increase in anxiety and depression disorders since 2020, and the trend continues to rise in 2021. According to Boston University, “Depression among adults in the United States tripled in the early 2020 months of the global coronavirus pandemic—jumping from 8.5 percent before the pandemic to a staggering 27.8 percent. New research from Boston University School of Public Health reveals that the elevated rate of depression has persisted into 2021, and even worsened, climbing to 32.8 percent, and affecting 1 in every 3 American adults.”

Not only is depression on the rise, but anxiety cases are also increasing. The Lancet Medical Journal states that there has been a 23% increase in cases of anxiety since the start of the pandemic.

Why has the Pandemic Caused an Increase in the Cases of Depression and Anxiety?

The pandemic is a traumatic event in each of our lives. When we are not ready for or have the coping skills to manage the huge changes that the pandemic brings, it can lead to depression and anxiety. This can happen with any life event we are not quite ready to handle. In most cases of trauma, depression and anxiety will lessen with time; however, research shows it is not the case with this pandemic. The Lancet Medical Journal states, “Typically, we would expect depression to peak following the traumatic event and then lower over time. Instead, we found that 12 months into the pandemic, levels of depression remained high.” No doubt partly due to fear of the unknown and not knowing how long these big life changes will last.

It is no surprise that we are all being mentally and emotionally effected by the pandemic. Each of us has been forced to change the way to live our lives and connect with our families for nearly two years. Each day we deal with new stressors at work and at home, and it can be very overwhelming at times. We all feel feelings of uncertainty, fear, stress, anger, and lack of control because of this global pandemic.

Getting Help

You are not alone. More people than ever are experiencing depression and anxiety. Depression and anxiety can affect anyone. If you think you might be experiencing overwhelming symptoms, please seek help. Talking to your primary care provider is the best first step because they can guide you to better understand your feelings. You can learn more about the symptoms and treatments for anxiety and depression by reading our article, “Understanding Depression and Anxiety”.  

Most importantly, if you feel like you may harm yourself or someone else, please seek help immediately by dialing 911 or calling the suicide hotline: 800-273-8255. Seek treatment early, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Talk to your primary care physician today.

 

Resources:

https://www.economist.com/graphic-detail/2021/10/11/covid-19-has-led-to-a-sharp-increase-in-depression-and-anxiety

https://www.bu.edu/articles/2021/depression-rates-tripled-when-pandemic-first-hit/

https://www.statnews.com/2021/10/08/mental-health-covid19-pandemic-global/

https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/70/wr/mm7013e2.htm


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