"It's Okay to Talk About It!"
It’s time to open up.
According to GoodShape’s UK PLC 2021 Workforce Health Report, “In 2021, mental health was the most common cause of lost working time in nearly every industry, with absences averaging at least three times longer than for COVID-19-related reasons.”
Talking about your mental health can be a very intimidating task. With so much stigma surrounding the subject, one might find it difficult to even initiate the conversation. Yet, being mentally healthy is just as important as being physically fit. Life in general can be challenging to manage. We’re constantly faced with problems, ranging from personal relationships to economic hardships. Add to the usual set of issues a global pandemic, two hurricanes and a destructive ice storm and you have a strong recipe for depression and anxiety.
The National Institute of Mental Health reports that over 17 million Americans, or about seven percent of the population, suffered “at least one major depressive episode” during 2017. Anxiety, which frequently overlaps with depression, is even more prevalent in the US now post-pandemic. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, roughly 40 million Americans will “experience an anxiety disorder in any given year.” Mental health is a struggle that could afflict anyone. So, what are some symptoms to watch out for?
The following are common signs you may have an anxiety or depressive disorder:
• Excessive sweating
• Hypervigilance (exaggerated responses or constantly scanning environment)
• Insomnia
• Irritability
• Panic attacks
• Racing thoughts
• Restlessness
• Severe, intense stress
• Trembling
• Crying fits
• Difficulty concentrating
Sometimes, we must hit rock bottom before we are able to recover. Yet, recovery is possible. We must make the most out of the pandemic we find ourselves in and strive to improve our lives, homes, and careers.
It is okay to ask for help!
In most cases, patients require a balanced approach for comprehensive treatment of mental health, which typically includes a combination of pharmaceuticals and counseling. Nonetheless, there are some simple ways to act on your own. One of the most effective ways to take charge of your mental health is by using the “Be Mindful” approach.
Be MINDFUL:
Monitor how much time is spent on pandemic news
Interest yourself in a new hobby, i.e., painting, cooking, sewing, or learning a new language
Network with friends and loved ones via zoom or talking on phone if isolated
Dress yourself! Even when in isolation, maintaining proper hygiene helps your mental health
Find a healthy way to process thoughts and vent emotions like journaling
Use exercise and relaxation techniques to clear your mind
Learn to eat healthy (with the occasional indulgence of course!)
Family and Youth Counseling Agency’s CEO, Julio Galan states, “We know the past two years have been difficult for all and recovery has been challenging. During this time, increased anxiety and stress is not only normal, but expected. Recovery does not begin and end with rebuilding, we as people must rebuild and recharge as well and that can begin with a phone call."
If you feel that you need to be seen by a medical professional today, Access Urgent Care is happy to speak with you regarding your symptoms of anxiety, depression, or any other medical need. We have emergency trained providers, and no wait times! If you find yourself in an emergency, dial 9-1-1 or visit your nearest emergency room!
Remember, we’re here for you.
For More Information:
Local Counseling:
Family and Youth Counseling Agency, Inc.
220 Louie St.
Lake Charles, LA 70601 (337) 436-9533
Online Resources:
(Especially helpful if under quarantine or isolation as these can be the loneliest of times)
getcerebral.com (telemedicine option)
National Resources:
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (800) 273-TALK ((800)) 273-8255
24-hour Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline (800) 662-HELP ((800)) 662-4357
References:
- Journal of Family Medicine and Primary Care
- National Institute of Mental Health
- Anxiety and Depression Association of America Workplace DNA
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Access Urgent Care is a locally owned, community-driven urgent care clinic in Lake Charles that provides affordable, accessible healthcare to a growing region. Their team of ER-trained, experienced providers are available seven days a week. No appointments are necessary and little to no wait time is always their priority.
