Impact of COVID-19 on Mental Health | UPMC HealthBeat Podcast

Summary

The UPMC Healthbeat podcast discusses the significant impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health, with Dr. James Two highlighting increased depression, anxiety, and substance use. He distinguishes between general blues and clinical depression, emphasizing the importance of daily functioning and seeking support. Dr. Two also addresses coping strategies, the importance of self-care, and the shift to virtual mental health services, while reassuring listeners that seeking help is a normal and essential step for those struggling.

Takeaways

• 🏥 The podcast is for informational and educational purposes only, and is not a substitute for professional medical advice or care.
• 🌐 The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant negative impact on mental health, with increased symptoms in those previously unaffected and worsening of existing conditions.
• 🔍 To differentiate between 'the blues' and a more serious condition, look for changes in daily functioning and the inability to engage in usual activities or meet obligations.
• 🤔 Encouragement to seek input from friends or supports to notice changes in behavior and emotional state.
• 💪 Coping strategies include self-care, establishing healthy routines, exercising, maintaining regular sleep schedules, and moderating alcohol intake.
• 🏠 The pandemic has highlighted the importance of self-care and mindfulness, especially in the absence of regular social interactions and routines.
• 🚨 Warning signs for seeking help include thoughts of life not being worth living, feeling desperate, or being out of character, indicating a need for immediate support.
• 📞 Information about available crisis services, such as 24/7 crisis lines and mobile teams of professionals who can provide community support.
• 🏥 Details about psychiatric emergency evaluation services available at the hospital, including the option for virtual or in-person consultations.
• 🧒 The pandemic has been particularly challenging for children and adolescents, affecting their mental health due to changes in routine and increased family tension.
• 🌱 The importance of maintaining structure and routine, especially for young people, to mitigate the negative effects of isolation and lack of social interaction.

Q & A

What is the purpose of the UPMC Healthbeat podcast?

The UPMC Healthbeat podcast is for informational and educational purposes, focusing on health-related topics and providing insights from experts like Dr. James Two.

How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected mental health according to Dr. James Two?

Dr. James Two states that the pandemic has significantly impacted mental health, with people experiencing new or worsening symptoms of depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders due to disrupted routines and relationships.

What are some signs that someone may be experiencing more than just the blues?

If an individual is unable to get out of bed, show up for work or important obligations, or is unable to do things that normally make them happy, these are signs that they may be experiencing clinical depression.

What are some self-care practices suggested to cope with the blues during the pandemic?

Self-care practices include establishing healthy routines, exercising, setting regular sleep schedules, being mindful of alcohol consumption, and engaging in pleasurable activities outside the home.

What should one do if they or a family member are having thoughts of life not being worth living?

If someone is having such thoughts, they should reach out for help immediately. It's important to have a safety plan in place, including contacts for support or crisis hotlines, such as the Resolve Crisis Network in Allegheny County.

What services does the Resolve Crisis Network offer?

The Resolve Crisis Network offers a 24-hour hotline, a drop-in center, and a mobile team of professionals who can provide support in the community.

What is the role of the psychiatric emergency evaluation service at Western Psychiatric Hospital?

The psychiatric emergency evaluation service is available 24/7 and is staffed by professionals who evaluate individuals experiencing a mental health crisis and provide appropriate assistance, which may not necessarily involve hospitalization.

How has the pandemic affected children and adolescents' mental health?

The shift to online learning, changes in daily routines, and the lack of structure have been challenging for young people, sometimes leading to increased tensions and mental health issues.

What is the impact of isolation on mental health?

Isolation can disrupt routines and natural rhythms, affecting sleep, focus, and social interactions. It can also lead to distorted thinking if daily social interactions are replaced by excessive virtual connections.

Which groups have been particularly affected by isolation due to the pandemic?

People with intellectual disabilities or special needs, who rely on support groups and structured activities, have been significantly impacted by isolation, as have those who require day programs and may be hesitant to seek emergency services due to virus exposure fears.

How have mental health services adapted during the pandemic?

Many mental health services have shifted to online or virtual platforms to control viral spread, which has both expanded access by reducing travel time and distance issues, but also potentially reduced the sense of human connectedness during therapy sessions.

What safety precautions are in place at Western Psychiatric Hospital during the pandemic?

The hospital has implemented measures such as mandatory masking, hand hygiene, temperature checks, designated red zones for COVID-19 positive patients, and quarantine units for monitoring patients of undetermined status.

What message does Dr. James Two have for people who may be hesitant to seek mental health support?

Dr. Two encourages people to overcome the stigma and seek help, reminding them that it's common and human to struggle with stress and anxiety, and that they are not alone.