The COVID-19 virus continues to rage in the United States. Apart from the harm it inflicts on people, there is another issue that cannot be overlooked: mental health problems. According to statistical data from the National Alliance on Mental Illness, approximately one in five American adults suffers from a mental disorder each year, including depression and substance abuse.
Health survey research found that in the past year, 51.5 million adults in the U.S. were affected by mental illness. The percentage increased from 17.7% in 2008 to 20.6% in 2019. Among these adults with mental disorders, only 43.3% sought treatment. Research shows that the LGBTQ+ community faces the highest mental health risks, with 37.4% of the group affected.
Additionally, a study published in the *Journal of the American Medical Association Pediatrics* in 2019 indicated that about half of the children with anxiety, depression, or ADHD did not receive treatment. Data from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry shows that accessing treatment can be challenging for these families. Furthermore, many areas severely lack qualified psychiatrists, with fewer than 17 doctors per 100,000 children available to provide treatment.
Beyond what has been mentioned, the emergence of COVID-19 has brought more mental health issues to the American public. Compared to other countries, Americans have experienced greater negative psychological impacts related to the COVID-19 virus.
Surveys from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicate that nearly 41% of respondents are dealing with mental health issues caused by the pandemic. These issues are related both to the virus itself and to the isolation measures taken. Almost 41% of respondents reported experiencing at least one psychological problem, including depression and anxiety.
The CDC states that the number of Americans experiencing anxiety symptoms is three times that of the same period last year. Additionally, numerous studies show that the impact of COVID-19 on Black individuals has been particularly severe. Besides, the pandemic has also harmed caregivers. Reports reveal that, compared to before the pandemic, these caregivers are under more stress to balance family and work, resulting in poorer mental health.
So how can one maintain mental health in daily life?
First, it is crucial to ensure sufficient sleep. Good and adequate sleep can alleviate tension and anxiety while also restoring energy, which is beneficial for maintaining a healthy mental state.
Second, attention should also be paid to diet. For example, consuming too much sugar or drinking excessive coffee can affect a person’s mood. While these things may seem pleasurable at the moment, they can actually result in many adverse effects. It is advisable to eat more healthy foods such as fruits, vegetables, and proteins.
Additionally, going out for a walk every day, particularly in places that are crowded with people, trees, or animals, can help relieve one’s emotions. Parks, squares, and supermarkets are all good choices.
Moreover, engaging in regular exercise, whether through yoga, dancing with friends, or going for walks or runs, can also alleviate tension and anxiety.
Finally, it is important to reduce the time spent on mobile phones or computers. More and more mental health professionals have found that depression and anxiety are closely related to these devices. They can exacerbate feelings of loneliness and increase anxiety and tension.
In summary, to maintain a healthy mental state, it is essential to chat with family and friends and go out for a stroll. Avoid often isolating yourself indoors with a phone; despite the richness of the internet, it can inadvertently intensify feelings of loneliness. The increasing number of people suffering from mental illness in the U.S. may be related to maintaining a certain social distance. Prolonged isolation can indeed easily lead to depression for those who enjoy socializing. This is applicable in any country.
