Mental health trends worrisome – The Republic

While most are familiar with the visible symptoms that come along with COVID-19, the virus has also impacted thousands of people in ways not as easily diagnosed.

Health experts at the national, state, and local levels are becoming increasingly concerned that the pandemic is fueling a mental health crisis unlike anything theyve ever seen.

According to the National Center for Health Statistics and U.S. Census Bureau, almost four times as many adults in the United States are reporting symptoms of anxiety and depression compared to October of 2019.

Of those surveyed, 32.3% of adults are feeling anxiety and 24.3% are showing symptoms of depression. In addition, 13.3% have said theyve battled substance abuse problems and 10.7% have considered suicide.

The changes brought on by the pandemic have especially impacted young people. Nearly 45% of adults surveyed aged 18 to 29 recently reported symptoms of anxiety while 39% have experienced symptoms of depression.

Local mental health experts say theyre not surprised by the recent statistics, as theyre seeing an increase in demand for mental health services.

Julie Miller, executive director of Family Service Inc., recently told The Republic she thinks the county could see a dramatic rise in suicides, substance abuse and even cardiovascular problems and diabetes as the pandemic rages on.

Not all of the deaths are correlated to mental health, but Bartholomew County has seen a surge in overdose deaths this year. The county has already surpassed last years total with 27 (and one additional pending) recorded deaths.

Local police have confirmed Millers worries, as theyve said theyve seen an increase in domestic disturbances, domestic disputes, drug overdoses and alcohol-related calls. Calls were especially high in the early spring at the start of the pandemic in the U.S.

With the number of new COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations rising in Indiana, experts predict the need for mental health services will also increase. Dr. Darrin Carr, clinical assistant professor of psychology and director of the masters program in mental health counseling at IUPUC, said there could be long-lasting negative mental health issues as a society because of the virus.

Theres no easy answer to solving the developing mental health crisis.

With the number of COVID-19 cases increasing statewide, its imperative that some public health guidelines, like wearing masks, stay in place. At the same time, another statewide lock down also isnt the answer, as it could lead to more unemployment.

The trends are worrisome, and deserve our attention. For the time being, its imperative that the mental health services in place are used by those that need them.

Send comments to editorial@therepublic.com.

Where to find help

Read the original:
Mental health trends worrisome - The Republic