We are all aware of the Covid-19 pandemic and its effect on our immune system, physical body and the entire economy.
Understanding the world of Covid-19
This crisis has also led to social distancing and isolation from the external world, which took a hit on our mental well being and health. Sources say over 32% of adults have experienced depressive thoughts anxiety in the entire 2020. This has more drastically impacted the youth (age group 18-24) as around 56% have shown signs of depression and anxiety.
For the youth, restrictions have resulted in virtual learning, isolation from friends, and the cancelling of adventure activities like games, sports, travelling, school/ college performances and even lifetime memories like graduations. These young stages are where a youthful child goes through changes and understands his physical, emotional, mental and cognitive abilities. There are hormonal transgressions, more sovereignty, peer pressure and additional responsibility. The stats have only worsened with time and the severity of the pandemic.
Why are teenagers and young adults experiencing depression and anxiety during the Covid-19 Pandemic?
With the combined shock of the Covid-19 pandemic all over the world, it’s not shocking that young adults are the age group that is affected the most. How the coronavirus outbreak is affecting their daily lives, how we can all support each other during the crisis and what feelings or stories the term social distancing, lockdown, or quarantine implores for them. Almost 71% of India’s population still thinks of mental illness as a taboo, prejudice or a myth. Before COVID-19 came along, one could estimate that India would lose a lot of education, social well being, job opportunities and much more due to unstable and disorganized ways of tackling mental health issues. With the pandemic ongoing, it is increasing as days pass by. This impact on the youth may lead to critical and long-term disadvantages that will affect their productivity and the national economy.
What are the signs of anxiety and depression in teenagers and young adults?
You can see signs of disturbed sleep patterns, passive-aggressive attitude, drop in grades and distancing from family as a negative sign. These are the basic traits of an individual with depression and/or anxiety. Guardians of these young adults should understand teens for exhibiting such behavioural or other drastic changes due to the superimposed mental toll of being separated from their typical life experiences. Note, to understand their needs and not lose your temper.
How to help anxiety and depression in teenagers and young adults during the Covid-19 pandemic
- Easing on the family rules: A balance between virtual life and real-life is understandable for the pre-pandemic lifestyle. However, parents and medical professionals have suggested that loosening social media limits and screen time has shown signs of improvement in their child’s mental health.
- Seeking help from experts: Not just for young adults, but parents too can benefit from booking an Online Doctor Consultation appointment. It is a recommended option for individuals who are or are not showing signs of anxiety, depression and even other medical issues. Parents and teenagers often seek help and it has a positive effect on their lives..
- A balance between communication and allowing space: Young adults and teens often show symptoms of withdrawal from their parents. For a parent, it may be a matter of concern and then they end up overcompensating. It is advisable for parents to demonstrate that they are not alone in this battle against coronavirus by talking about their personal fears, stress and insecurities surrounding our new world. Build a coping mechanism and strategies by asking doubts that aid in creating a happy place..
- Encouragement to improve sleep cycle: Build an organized sleep timetable that perfectly balances with the regular online learning classes, focusing on stability in the house and often communication with friends and family. All of these actions will enable a young adult to focus and build a healthy sleep timetable.
Visit here for more information about the online depression test.
Covid-19 is a tough time for everyone with restrictive measures and a different way of life. Since stepping out of your homes is risky and inadvisable, many health care organizations have switched to online methods. Seek for Covid-19 Care to address not just the psychological needs of young adults but also other Covid-19 related symptoms, tips, tests and much more.
Make sure to be supportive and fight this virus for the better health and life we have ahead.