Right now, the coronavirus remains center stage as medical experts and world leaders work tirelessly to protect citizens from the potentially life-threatening illness. The “invisible threat” sparked shelter in place orders, travel bans, mask mandates, and social distancing regulations with the hopes of slowing the spread. Although the development and distribution of COVID-19 vaccines have provided some relief, the necessary changes amid the pandemic have led to worldwide mental strain.
The increased experience of death, isolation, job loss, financial trouble, burnout, relational demise, and the spotlight on social injustice has increased chronic stress, depression, and anxiety. Mental health experts worry that mental illness will be the next pandemic if we don’t act now. So, is the world ready for that? If not, what are they doing to make a positive impact?
Overcoming The Myths
The biggest issue is breaking the stigma of mental illness and those who seek treatment. Although we’ve come a long way, many people are still suffering in silence for fear that they’ll be labeled crazy, weak, a burden, or have their lives turned upside down. The problem with this way of thinking is patients don’t come forward. There will be no progress if no one speaks on their need for medical intervention for mental health problems.
Fortunately, the medical industry, with the support of others, is doing everything it can to overcome these myths and misconceptions. Whether it’s providing educational content for patients to learn the facts or enlisting the help of celebrities to advocate for mental wellness, it’s a big step in the right direction.
Safer Medications
Another problem with treating mental illness is the available medications and the potential side effects. Many patients would love to take medication that will help improve their mood, reduce symptoms, and enhance their quality of life. However, most would agree that the side effects that often come with mental health medications are risky. From headaches and increased fatigue to weight gain and enhanced thoughts of suicide, many people assume it’s better to deal with their mental illness alone than deal with the potential consequences.
Fortunately, there have been advancements in mental health medications. Take hydroxyzine, for instance. Although related to antihistamines like Benadryl to treat allergies, there’s been an uptick in the number of doctors prescribing hydroxyzine for anxiety. Its characteristics make it ideal for helping to regulate mood and sleep.
Unlike other anti-anxiety medications that require daily use, hydroxyzine is taken as needed, giving patients a sense of control. It works effectively in helping you to feel calm and get a good night’s sleep for an improved mood and boost of energy the next day. The best part is the potential side effects of taking hydroxyzine are minimal, ranging from drowsiness to constipation, which is a lot safer.
Combining Medicine And Therapy
The longer patients take medications, the higher the potential to experience adverse physical and psychological effects. Medicine is often prescribed as a temporary solution to help treat a condition. However, they work more effectively when patients tap into other therapies and lifestyle choices to enhance their health and wellness.
Lately, there’s been a push for those suffering from mental health problems to seek help through talk therapy. The idea is that patients can use the medication to treat symptoms and consult with a therapist to learn concepts to work through everyday struggles. Sharing your biggest issues with a mental health expert releases tension while giving you an unbias and practical perspective to overcome the challenges. Over time, patients can develop healthy habits that boost their mood and ultimately eliminate the need for long-term use of prescription medication.
There’s no denying that the global pandemic has contributed to the spike in mental health problems. Sitting idly by isn’t the answer if the world wants to prevent another crisis. Instead, they must continue debunking the myths, developing medications with fewer side effects, and stressing the importance of medication and therapy for an improved state of being.
