Staying Strong During Hectic Times
By: Nadine Hernandez & Nadia Castro
Since the outbreak of the pandemic, it is highly recommended to stay quarantined to help flatten the curve. Social distancing requires one to not be in physical contact with friends or have family gatherings during this time. The protocol stresses maintaining distance from others, and the best way to do so is to stay at home until said otherwise. Those who need to leave the house for essential items need to wear a mask and practice social distancing by being six feet apart from others. However, these protocols have become difficult to some people who used the outside world as an escape.
Mental disorders such as bipolar, anxiety, depression and PTSD have spiked due to these drastic changes. Treatments that were often used to alleviate symptoms cannot be reached during this time, such as in-person therapy and group sessions. Not all symptoms for disorders are clear, but keeping up with those who may be having a hard time will let them know they are not alone during these trying times. The CDC has some great tips and resources for those dealing with mental health issues.
As everything seems to be spiraling out of control, it is vital to remember the things that you are capable of handling. The reality of being unable to regulate media outlets and news will perhaps heighten the stress one will feel, especially with anxiety.
Anxiety is associated with extreme worry and fear that is severe enough to disrupt daily activities. When being exposed to information, keep in mind that some news is false, misleading and is bound to increase levels of stress. Reliable sources for updated news of the pandemic are the CDC, the World Health Organization and your local public health authorities.
With school being shifted online, it may have become difficult to maintain self-care and creating a productive environment. A few things that may help create this environment are lighting a candle, playing music and having a to-do list set with concrete goals to accomplish for the day. During this time, avoid overexposing yourself to things that might make you feel uneasy.
Stay home, take care of yourself and if you find yourself over analyzing the “what ifs," remember that there is help available to you. Social media is a beneficial tool to reach out to friends and family to relieve what may be consistently bothersome. For more information on anxiety visit the Anxiety and Depression Association of America.
While staying quarantined, it may be difficult to stay focused on the positive outlook out of a worldwide situation, especially for those who struggle to stay clear from thinking negatively already. People with bipolar disorder experience periods of unusually intense emotion, changes in sleep patterns and activity levels, and uncharacteristic behaviors that can last for several days or weeks.
The order to stay home has allowed less distractions, increased focus on thoughts, the need to sleep or agitation. With this in mind, a few things that can help staying on track on mood swings is creating a self-management routine.
Getting up the same time each day, eating well balanced meals ideally at the same time, getting some daylight, (sit by a window to focus on staying calm and in tune with your mind) and making sure to have someone to talk to in order to exchange feelings and thoughts to help avoid loneliness. Medication for this disorder may not be a treatment that is desired, therefore it is vital to express how you feel despite the idea of feeling convenient.
Truth of the matter is, being honest with yourself will help you grow and can even help others grow with the realization that you do not have to face this internal struggle alone. For more information visit, The Depression And Bipolar Support Alliance for more tools and resources, we are in this together.
Being within four walls can trap a person not only physically, but mentally. Depression can come about without noticeable signs to other people and yourself since it is assumed that depression is a state of sadness that lingers, but that is not the case.
The symptoms include feeling not right with yourself, sleeping excessively, insomnia, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, loss of interest or joylessness. While staying inside sleeping might not seem like a form of distress, sleeping out of tiredness and sleeping for an escape are completely different.
School being online can impact this because there’s more added to the plate with the amount of classes there are or if you’re working throughout this pandemic. Treatment services are now provided online and lines are open 24/7 that will keep you anonymous to talk about what you are going through or if you simply need to vent.
Take time to let everything out, don't be ashamed of how you are feeling, write it down, scream, cry or play music out loud to let go. Try to do one thing a day that will make a positive impact, you are not alone.
Post-traumatic stress disorder can develop after experiencing a traumatic event that leaves someone feeling distressed and disconnected from reality. Symptoms can gradually come about or appear unexpectedly as signs of re-experiencing the trauma, emotional numbness and avoidance. Not being able to see loved ones or your community that brings you comfort and safety may be difficult. PTSD symptoms can be set off by triggers that happen when an individual is reminded of the trauma and can be external or internal.
It may feel burdening to reach out to family members or friends, but that can help with any negative emotions flooding in. If you do not feel comfortable talking to someone who knows you, there are hotlines where you remain anonymous to talk. You can call the National Suicide Prevention Line at 1-800-273-8255 or text HOME to 741741 where services are available 24/7.
If you are alone or living with family at this time, a beneficial way to take care of yourself is to stay balanced. Find time throughout the day to focus on your mind and body with meditation, walks, painting or any activities you enjoy. Setting small goals for yourself and making a schedule for the days can help the time during this pandemic.
When coming to an end, perhaps a new set of coping mechanisms will be learned. Many have lost jobs due to the pandemic as well as a sense of control, but we are given the control of our well being. If you are experiencing feelings of distress, sadness or even hopelessness please do not keep it a secret.
There are many forms of help that await. Take a short walk, listen to your favorite music, talk to a close friend or family member and write down how you feel. If you know someone who may experience any of these disorders, reach out and be empathetic towards their feelings. Be genuine when listening, support and empower them to be aware of their challenges as it may be difficult for these individuals to open up.
Hotline Services:
National Alliance on Mental Illness:1- 800-950-6264
NAMI Crisis Text Line: Text NAMI to 741-741
California Youth Crisis Line: 1-800-843-5200
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration: 800-662-4357
Boys Town National Hotline: 1-800-448-3000
Teen Line: 1-310-855-4673
National Center for PTSD: 1-800-273-8255 Press “1” if you are a veteran