Have you recently felt stuck and helpless while watching the news? After staring at a screen for a few hours, did you feel alone and down in the dumps? 

Your mental health was most likely affected by your circumstances, triggering a dip in your emotional, psychological, and social well-being. While you can’t control everything that happens to you, be aware that your mental health is important. Take care of it like you take care of your physical health.  

Effects of the CoronaVirus 

During the COVID-19 pandemic, doctors have told us the best way to keep ourselves and loved ones safe is to stay home. But being held captive inside with no sense of motivation can harm your mental health.

The doctors at Cedars Sinai in Los Angeles say that often pandemics, natural disasters, and other traumatic experiences can cause a spike in stress and depression.

Taking the time to destress and connect with the world can help emotionally ground you. Activities such as calling a friend, going on a walk, baking a cake, or listening to music can release feel-good endorphins to enhance your sense of well-being.

Results for Students

Poor mental health can result in hindering performance in school. Your energy levels, concentration, and the possibility of dropping out altogether can be linked to mental health-related issues. Such problems can negatively affect future careers and create financial struggles, lack of potential, and suicidal ideation in teens. 

A survey at the American College Health Association found that mental health issues such as stress, depression, and anxiety negatively impacted students’ performances. College students reported a drop in grades on exams and in classes, overall creating significant disruption in their work.

Caused by Self-Isolation 

As teenagers in 2021, our phones are an extension of our arms and most of us can’t go to bed without watching an episode of our favorite show. During COVID-19 we are especially glued to our devices to distract us from the chaos outside. However, the time we spend staring at screens is the same amount of time we are resisting human connection, resulting in separation and loneliness.

In his recent book, Digital Minimalism, Cal Newport describes how the use of technology is affecting human behavior and our culture. He explains why putting down our phones can help us reconnect with ourselves. 

Evaluating your emotions is necessary for positive mental health. Often we scroll through Instagram to ignore how we feel in or about a situation. The lack of recognition of your feelings could be why you might feel overwhelmed or anxious. Turning off the TV and playing a board game with a sibling can help you find peace during a hectic time. 

The phrase “the words we speak become the house we live in”,  holds true for our thoughts as well. You would never encourage a friend to stay in a situation where they are not feeling loved or valued. So why would you disregard the sociological well-fare of the mental home you exist in every day? You shouldn’t. 

We all deserve a safe place to call home.