Psychologist needed immediately. Post-COVID complications.

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, it is increasingly impacting everyone's mental health and leaving its mark. Initially, the main culprits for low mood, anxiety, restlessness, and insomnia were the prolonged isolation, the inability to see loved ones face-to-face, and the fear of job loss and financial decline. Healthcare workers faced enormous mental strain, and the first studies on the pandemic's impact on mental health were conducted on them. These studies revealed a significant increase in stress, which in the long term develops into posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), similar to the stress associated with armed conflict. 

Nervous system disorders after Covid-19.

Preliminary research on the neuropsychological consequences of COVID-19 indicates that approximately 25% of people may experience central nervous system symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, and altered consciousness, also known as brain fog. These symptoms can occur during infection, but also several weeks or later after the illness. Similar research findings were obtained after the last epidemic caused by another coronavirus, SARS, in 2003. Based on this, special attention is now being paid to the impact of the pandemic from a neuropsychogenic perspective.

Does coronavirus cause mental illness and disorders?

We are currently facing widespread psychosocial consequences caused by the pandemic, both in terms of social anxiety and mental health as a consequence of COVID-19 infection. This dual impact of the pandemic is causing an increasing number of patients to visit psychologists, psychiatrists, and family doctors' offices with various ailments or exacerbations of pre-existing mental illnesses and disorders. Seeking help indicates that we are struggling to cope with daily life and have reached the limits of our ability to adapt to new conditions. 

In addition to the symptoms already mentioned accompanying the epidemic situation, special attention should be paid to the increase in the level of addictions as a consequence of the ongoing pandemic, and it is not only alcohol abuse that is a problem, but also psychoactive substances and behavioral addictions, e.g. to phones, games or television.

How to improve your mental health during the pandemic.

Given the above, one common feature of the pandemic is UNCERTAINTY, which has become the only constant in our reality. Without taking preventative measures, changing our attitudes, and increasing our mental resources, it will be difficult to maintain our psychophysical well-being. Therefore, if you experience anxiety, low mood, insomnia, or prolonged stress, you should remember and apply a few important principles:

• Take care of your physical activity

Take walks, exercise at home, do breathing exercises. Try to dedicate even a few minutes to being active every day.

• Don't overdo reading and watching news about the pandemic

Focusing on information about new cases, deaths, and restrictions only increases our anxiety and frustration. Instead, read a good, positive book, or watch a movie, an interesting show, or a comedy show.

• Plan your day, all your routine activities, as well as those that will make your day more interesting

By preparing a framework for our daily routine, we take control of the situation. Don't focus on things beyond your control; you'll only waste energy that could be used for personal development and taking care of yourself and your loved ones.

• Eat regularly and healthily

Nothing energizes you for work like a good meal. Avoid excess simple sugars and saturated fats. Vary your diet, try new flavors, and add plenty of vegetables and fruit. Make sure your diet is rich in vitamins C, D, and B, as well as minerals such as magnesium and calcium.

• Develop your passions, find a new hobby

Contrary to popular belief, this period of isolation is a time for a "reset." You can slow down, pause for a moment, and consider whether something has been missing in your life. Perhaps there's something you once enjoyed, but you're not doing it because you haven't had the time. Perhaps this is a good time to learn something new. 

• Take care of your social relationships

Talk to friends and family about how you feel. Use internet connections and cameras; this will allow for a sense of direct contact, eye contact, which is essential for building good relationships. Spread smiles to yourself and others. Remember that kind words and peace can be shared from a distance.

• Reduce stress with relaxation training

Take care of your inner harmony by practicing relaxation, meditation, tai chi, and other techniques that promote balance. This will help you maintain peace and also help with sleep problems.

You are not alone! Seek help from a psychologist or psychiatrist.

If you feel like things are too difficult for you, talk to a psychologist or psychiatrist. There's nothing wrong with feeling overwhelmed. Sometimes, realizing that your problem is solvable, that it has an end, and that your well-being is temporarily impaired, will help you cope better with stress. A psychologist will help you find new solutions and unearth inner resources. You'll release your negative emotions and learn to cope with difficult situations. Sometimes, pharmacological treatment and psychotherapy are necessary, and only then can you return to stability and health.

Despite the enormous burden we have to bear every day in this extremely difficult situation, let us not remain inactive towards those around us who are feeling the effects of the pandemic and need specialist help.

Author of the text:

Sylwia Krasowska, M.A. – psychologist