We are about a month in to our shelter-in-place orders. I myself, and likely many others, have been feeling some strange combination of stir-craziness and contentment in my home. Many people I have talked to report that “every day is different”. This is a funny in some ways as the monotony is really starting to set in. But it is evident that many of us are feeling significant fluctuations in mood so I wanted to take a moment to address mental health during this lockdown.

I have been increasingly worried about the impact on mental health that COVID-19 will undoubtedly have, in our present days as well as into the future as we cope with the varying traumas associated with it.

Those who live with family or friends are still getting the human contact we as a species crave and need. Others live alone and relied on their previous daily routines to get that human connection. Also, we are all coming to the table of this experience with varying levels of mental health in general. Some are typically more balanced in terms of brain chemistry while others have struggled with depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders throughout their lives.

It is difficult for even the most emotionally balanced to navigate the path of processing media input, our relationship with hope/hopelessness, isolation, potential loss of income, and fear among countless other factors that may be coming up for you. We may feel hopeful and happy one day and irritated and listless the next.

The brain and heart process information over time. That is why there are such things as the Stages of Grief, for example. It is too much to absorb all at once and it is normal to notice some fluctuations as we try to work through it all. This pandemic is full of unknowns in general, so it is even more difficult to find that mental space of clarity and security that we are all constantly seeking. We want to feel safe and as certain as possible throughout life. This pandemic has presented us with a lack of control. Our freedom has been impacted, which quite obviously can impact our overall mental health.

If you have a a history of depression, you may be having a more difficult time with the new normal. Especially if you live alone. It may feel like too much to bear. It is so important that we create awareness and support for these folks. It could be someone you love, your neighbor, a stranger on the street or it could be you. Offering connection and empathy to yourself and others during this time is absolutely critical.

SYMPTOMS OF DEPRESSION

Some symptoms of depression include but are not limited to sleeplessness, sleeping too much, loss of interest in activities, mood swings, apathy, crying, irritability, changes in appetite, lack of concentration, lack of motivation, hopelessness, and thoughts of suicide.

These may be obvious to some of you but I think it is important to list some of the big ones here so that people who may not have a history of depression can have the opportunity to identify any that may feel accurate for you right now. You don’t have to have a history of depression or a diagnosis from a doctor to determine if you may be in need of some support during this time. If you feel like your mental health is suffering, it is important to take action.

Here are some ideas of ways to help yourself and others manage mental health during this crisis.

1) Seek help

Therapy: You can schedule phone or zoom therapy sessions.

Acupuncture and herbs: I am available to patients for in-person treatments for mental health support. If you are uncomfortable with coming into the office, I would be more than happy to meet online to discuss your needs and come up with a treatment plan. Herbs can also be picked up curbside.

Alternative distance support: Reiki and hypnotherapy are also available and effective online. Inquire for recommendations.

2) Reach out

Reaching out to people can make a big difference for both the reacher and the receiver. Checking in with people who live alone is especially helpful. Though it is not a replacement for human contact, video-chatting, phone calls, sending cards, flowers, and emails can really go a long way.

3) Mood support supplements

You can order lots of supplements online that will help support mental health. SAM-e and St. John’s Wort are well-know and easy to acquire. Your local drugstore will have a whole section of mental health support options in the vitamin section. Please see my last post on sleep for more ideas for products that help to calm the mind.

As we move through these tough times, a few things have emerged as absolutely crucial for health moving forward. The need for support in the realm of mental health is one of them as is the necessity for stronger immune systems. I am so grateful to be able to support this movement toward healthier minds and bodies with acupuncture and herbs. We must use this time to care for ourselves, families, and communities and we must prepare for the future. Our existence depends on it.

Resources:

https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline

https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/can-acupuncture-treat-depression/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3689180/

https://www.hopefordepression.org/depression-facts/

Iris Martin is a Licensed Acupuncturist in Pasadena, California specializing in pain management and fertility. She loves sharing her passion for natural approaches to health and wellness through her online articles and at her clinic at 501 S. Arroyo Parkway. Call 408-780-0443 to book an appointment.