coronavirus, COVID-19, Depression

Rising Depression from Coronavirus

While a respiratory ailment by nature, COVID-19 has left destruction in its wake beyond the physical symptoms of the disease.

Along with a struggling economy and the ups and downs of business closures, for many, the coronavirus has taken a psychological toll. Strict regulations, social distancing, and fear of the disease are paving the way for mental health turmoil and depression.

Increased Depression from COVID-19

Since matters started to go south in the United States because of the coronavirus pandemic, the number of people struggling with depression and other mental health problems has skyrocketed.

One study found that compared to 2019, adults in the United States were more than three times as likely to screen positive for depression in April and May of this year.¹ This isn’t the only study to show such alarming numbers. In late June, 31% of adults in the United States reported having anxiety or depression symptoms and 11% admitted to seriously considering suicide.² In particular, young adults, minorities, essential workers, and unpaid adult caregivers seemed to be experiencing the most mental health problems because of the coronavirus and are in the greatest need of mental health care.²

Although the United States has had more than its fair share of COVID-19 cases, other places impacted greatly by the disease are seeing similar changes in the rate of depression. The British reported twice as many adults with symptoms of depression at 20% compared to less than 10% this same time last year. Of those surveyed, 13% also reported new symptoms that fell within the moderate to severe category.³ Italy, at one point a major epicenter for the coronavirus, has also seen a decrease in the mental health of its citizens. A survey of Italian residents just three weeks into lockdown found that 17.3% qualified for depression.⁴

Unfortunately, although the immediate effects are severe, there may be more long-term mental health effects of coronavirus still to come.

Dealing with Depression from Coronavirus

If you are feeling depressed from COVID-19, you are not alone. Many people around the world are struggling to cope during the coronavirus crisis. While there are some natural remedies and techniques you can try on your own, do not hesitate to get professional help. Our depression recovery center in South Florida helps people learn to manage their symptoms and move past their depression. Similarly, if you notice that someone you care about is struggling at this time, there are ways to help someone with depression, even if the coronavirus is keeping you from meeting in person.