By: Monica Aviles
The pandemic is not just a medical disaster, but a psychological one too. Mental health issues have been increasing since the beginning of quarantine, especially among the youth. It is a crucial part of our lives, and can not only affect us mentally, but emotionally and physically as well.
Amid this pandemic, people with preexisting mental health illnesses may have worsening symptoms due to quarantine. Some teens do not know how to manage their mental health, or how to cope with thoughts, stress, emotions, etc. Especially teens in violent or abusive homes where their escape was going to school.
Redwood Mental Health Survey
On April 29, 2020, a survey opened for Redwood student regarding their mental health. The participants mentioned 6 main answers to each question: excellent, very good, good, fair, or poor. The first slide asked, During the past two weeks, how often have you felt depressed or alone? The second slide asked, Overall, how would you rate your mental health? the third slide asked, During the past two weeks, how often has has your mental health interfered with getting stuff done? The last slide asked, How is your sleep schedule?
Stress
People react to stressful and dangerous situations differently. Some may remain calm, while others will face tragic mood swings. The Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends: taking breaks from news outlets, taking care of your body, connecting with others, eating healthy, and/or exercising if you’re struggling with managing your stress.
Anxiety
Anxiety is a severe constant worry and fear about day to day situations. It can involve persistent episodes of intense anxiety, fear, or panic attacks. The Anxiety Depression And Association of America (ADDA) suggests to: maintain a positive attitude, practicing relaxation techniques, getting enough sleep, and talking to your family/friends.
Depression
Depression is a mood disorder that causes a person to have a constant feeling of sadness. It can affect how one feels, thinks, and behaves. The CDC suggests seeking professional help, overcoming fears/insecurities, identifying things that worsen your depression, and bettering your relationships.
Recommended by the CDC, “People with preexisting mental health conditions should continue with their treatment and be aware of new or worsening symptoms.”
Sleep
Lack of sleep or sleep deprivation can lead to depression, serious medical conditions, drowsy driving, etc. To fall asleep faster or have a good night’s sleep, follow these simple recommendations from the CDC:
- Go to bed at the same time each night and get up at the same time each morning.
- Make sure your bedroom is quiet, dark, relaxing, and comfortable.
- Remove electronic devices from the bedroom. Especially your phone.
- Avoid large meals and caffeine before bedtime.
- Get some exercise. Being active during the day can help you fall asleep better and easier.
Distractions
Here are a few ways to distract yourself amid this pandemic:
1.) Learn how to cook better: It’s safer to cook your own food, rather than going out. Advance your own cooking abilities, and find tutorials/recipes online.
2.) Draw or create art: Grab a pencil and start drawing. you can follow step by step tutorials and better your art skills. You can also make collages with magazines or even learn how to sew.
3.) Exercise: You don’t need to go to the gym to workout, search up exercises without equipment to do at home. Learn how to do yoga or even meditation. It’s important to stay healthy, especially if you’re not leaving your house.
4.) Learn something new: Take advantage of your free time and pick up a new hobby to learn. There is infinite amounts of topics, talents, etc. to learn about like a new language or dancing.
5.) Read: This is a great way to keep your brains active. You can read almost about anything, recipes, books, comics, manga, articles, etc.
6.) Binge watch movies, shows, etc: Re-watch your favorite shows or movies. Have some movie marathons or find new recommendations from family/friends.
Resources
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255
- Disaster Distress Helpline: 1-800-985-5990. You can also text TalkWithUs to 66746
- California Youth Crisis Line: 1-800-843-5200
- https://adaa.org/tips (Anxiety/depression)
- https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/index.html (Coping)
Monica Aviles
Monica Aviles ('21) is a senior, and is in her second year of writing for the arts & entertainment section. The majority of her writing revolves around culture, activism, and different forms of art. Outside of the Gigantea, Monica is on the girl's wrestling team, president of the asl club, and is involved with many other clubs like Red Ink. You can reach her by email at monic.av3959@vusd.us
Tags: mental health awareness, pandemic, sleep, stress, youth
