More than a year ago, the world went through a major transition. COVID-19 took over the world, and everyone went into lockdown. People stuck in other countries can’t leave to visit their families on the other side of the world.
On the other hand, even people living in the same cities can’t meet each other. All these changes have led to more isolation and detachment from our loved ones. However, young adults are facing the most detriment to their mental health.
Mental Health Before COVID-19
The world is not equipped to handle a mental health crisis because even before the pandemic, it was difficult. Here are some pre-pandemic statistics on mental health to give you an idea:
- Depression is the leading cause of disability in the world, with almost 270 million people being affected
- More than half of mental health conditions begin at the age of fourteen
- Suicide is the second leading cause of death among people aged from fifteen to twenty-nine
- People suffering from severe mental disorders die ten to twenty years earlier than the general population
- Every forty seconds, someone dies of suicide
If this wasn’t enough, we now have a pandemic increasing these statistics as more young adults and other people are battling mental health problems.
Mental Health Amid COVID-19
Now that you know what mental health was like before the pandemic, here are some facts and statistics to show you what the situation is like amid COVID-19:
- Mental health services have been disrupted, and people can’t seek care or treatment
- People with existing mental health conditions have seen a relapse during COVID-19
- Frontline workers and patients, and families of people battling with COVID-19 are the most affected by mental illnesses
- 47% of frontline workers have stated they need psychological support
- Women are reporting a greater level of depression than men amid COVID-19
Mental illness problems have increased, and access to treatment has reduced. There are reports of increased depression, anxiety, substance abuse, addiction, and much more in young adults. That is why it has now become more important than ever to take care of mental health.
How To Find Support
Young adults who can’t receive psychological care or treatment from a therapist need to find ways to cope independently. That includes exercising, keeping a healthy diet, and finding an outlet to channel your energy. You can also find support from loved ones to cope better with the pandemic.
You are not responsible for the pandemic, but you are responsible for how you can cope with it. The best way to do that is to find a mental health professional in your area so you can have some support and care. Professionals are in a better position to help people struggling with mental illness.
The transition has not been easy for anyone, but we hope you find the support you truly need during these times. After all, we all deserve to thrive and find happiness, even in the little things.
