Did you know that 54% of Canadians have reported that their mental health has suffered due to the pandemic? Even though we're entering a post-COVID world, many people don't feel capable of facing life like they used to. This can be an isolating experience if you see everyone else return to normal while you struggle to adapt. It's important to know that you're not alone. Read on to understand how the pandemic may have impacted your mental health and how counselling therapy at Thunder Bay Psychology can help.
Your Routine Went Through Big Changes
One of the top reasons people continue to struggle with their mental health after COVID is that they continue to feel nervous about this as well as other viruses. The virus is still among us, so it's common to feel anxious at the thought of socializing, going out in public, back to work, or doing other activities that you used to do without a second thought.
Your Sleep Schedule May Be Sporadic
The pandemic's psychological impact caused many people to develop unhealthy sleeping patterns. It can be challenging to shift back from staying up late and napping throughout the day, to a healthier and more regulated sleep pattern. Sleep is crucial for our mental health, so creating a nighttime routine, with ample time to relax and with limited stimuli, limiting anxiety triggers such as watching or reading the news, can be critical to helping you regain a sense of control over your sleep.
You Could Be Facing More Loneliness
Life post-pandemic can still look similar to life during the pandemic. If you've learned to isolate and keep to yourself more, it may be difficult to reach out to your support network when you’re feeling down.
Your Previous Symptoms May Be Amplified
The mental stress of the pandemic made life much harder for people who were already facing mental health problems in the past. Exposure to so many upsetting news stories can amplify symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other mental health problems.
You May Have Adopted Unhealthy Coping Mechanisms
Some common and unhealthy coping mechanisms that people have used to get through the pandemic include drinking, using illegal drugs, overeating, sleeping too much, and ignoring problems. While you could feel proud of yourself for making it through a literally global traumatic event, you owe it to yourself to break any habits that could be sabotaging your mental health now.
Counselling at Thunder Bay Psychology Can Help You to Heal and Feel Better
The reassuring news is that you don't have to face COVID-19 and mental health struggles alone. Although these challenges may feel new to you, our team at Thunder Bay Psychology is trained to help you work through the trauma of the last couple of years and beyond.
Do You Need Help Adjusting to Post-COVID Life?
People tend to fear change, which is why life post-COVID has created all kinds of unease. No matter what symptoms you are experiencing, getting in touch with a mental health professional will give you the tools to help you to feel healthier and happier. Are you searching for counselling in Thunder Bay, Ontario? Our compassionate and experienced mental health experts are here to help you. Give us a call so you can book your appointment.