Depression during the pandemic - the new normal?

COVID-19 losses and uncertainty have led to a mental health crisis. Here's how to help.

Nearly one-third of Americans are experiencing symptoms of depression or anxiety. Recognizing when and how to help is key to getting assistance. Feel free to read my piece for NBC on how to manage uncertainty, or watch the below video interview on WUSA Channel 9 News

As a psychiatrist, my most common patients during the pandemic are working mothers trying to manage a full-time job at home while also being primarily responsible for children at home. Most report feeling irritable, with low energy, difficulty focusing, uncontrollable emotions, guilt over perceived privilege, loss of interest in past hobbies, general lack of motivation, and thoughts about death and the meaning of life- what is it all for? They aren’t sure if this is clinical depression, and are left feeling incompetent at work and at home. 

Many are experiencing trauma from the widespread disease, grief over losses (life, job security, relationships, former ways of living), legitimate fears of getting sick, loss of community and caregivers -- all while also losing our normal outlets for coping (gym workouts, vacations, office talk, outings with friends). With unprecedented physical distancing comes touch deprivation and social isolation, the latter of which is twice as harmful to a person’s physical health as obesity. 

While we are experiencing ennui and collective grief, there is a spectrum of depression. What should you do if you are feeling depressed and are unsure if it’s something serious that needs professional attention? How do we help loved ones who we are concerned about? 

Watch the above interview clip on depression during these digital times on WUSA channel 9 news, or read more on my article for NBC, to find out how to manage resentment, what to do when feeling overwhelmed, when to be more concerned about loved ones, and if texting or video calls makes a difference.