How to Handle Depression During the COVID-19 Pandemic

It’s fair to say that 2020 hasn’t panned out as anyone would’ve predicted and as such it’s hardly surprising that the ongoing pandemic, and the way it has impacted our daily lives, has had a negative effect on a large proportion of the population’s mental health. Indeed a recent survey states that approx 27% of adult Americans have suffered symptoms related to depression since the coronavirus took hold. That figure is far in excess of the ‘norm’ and a testament to the level of torment the virus has impacted upon us all. Rates of suicide are on the rise worldwide and astoundingly the pandemic has disrupted critical mental health services in 93% of countries worldwide, leaving many unable to access key services that are meant to be there to help in times of need such as these. The COVID-19 pandemic is truly a once in a century phenomenon and it may be helpful for those seeking some sense of balance to consider that fact. By this I mean that any feelings of dread or depression are wholly understandable and that the anxiety that they may be suffering from is not a burden they share alone.

So what can be done?

Clearly therapy, in all its forms, is a hugely beneficial tool to consider when anyone is troubled by depression but some may feel that this form of assistance is hampered by the fact that we are almost all in some way restricted by governmental guidelines put in place to stem the spread of the virus. However help is at hand. Online therapy was already a very popular option for those seeking counsel, and frankly the offering available now has only been boosted by the situation we all find ourselves in right now. The breadth of online therapeutic services is truly astounding and the online world as a whole has adapted incredibly well to the huge level of interest that has been created by the various levels of lockdown we are experiencing.

What now?

For those who have already experienced the many positive benefits of one on one in-person therapy there may be some level of stigma you feel is still attached to having this interaction online. In truth so much of our daily lives is now conducted online that the fact that therapy is now so successful via these means is no surprise. Of course there is always a sense of the unknown when trying something new but the level of usage in this area is proof in itself that the online therapy option does work for most. There are in fact some who actually prefer online therapy as it offers some an added sense of ease as they can conduct the discussions from the comfort of their own living rooms.

Who to trust?

The sheer scale of those using online therapy has in many ways aided the system of trust that exists. By this we mean that the fact that online therapy has now become so commonplace means that there are countless sites you can visit in order to find out what others feel about a particular service provider. This will help you to locate a trustworthy and reputable therapist that you can trust to offer you the best level of counseling. Among the most popular providers are the likes of TalkSpace, Betterhelp and Teen Counselling, and you can measure the effectiveness of what these providers have to offer by reading reviews from people who have tried them. As with any other form of service offered online, those who offer substandard service will fall by the wayside, and it will never be too hard to find the best of the best.

Stay positive, there is light at the end of the tunnel

COVID-19 has tested us all and on the whole we have battled well against the virus and we are getting closer to a longer lasting solution to the situation. Regardless of these testing times it can always be helpful to reach out and talk about things with a professional therapist. You should never shy away from dealing with the feelings of anguish, depression and sadness and interacting with a therapist is by far the most helpful option to consider. So whether it’s online, or in person, when the world returns to some level of normalcy, remember it’s good to talk.