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Read articles from Journey to Wellness Counseling, LLC offers counseling therapy in southern CT and throughout Connecticut. Individual, Couple, Family, Group therapy, specializing in cognitive behavioral therapy, humanistic therapy, family systems therapy, bilingual services, hospice, end of life, and various mental health issues. via Telehealth, Zoom available.

The Link Between COVID-19 and Depression

It may not be surprising that there appears to be a link between COVID-19 and depression. Headaches, fatigue, anxiety, and even an overall sense of dread is fairly common even after the initial symptoms subside. More than half of survivors surveyed reported symptoms of depression even months after recovery. So what are the causes and what can we do about it?

Can COVID-19 Actually Cause Depression?

It might, according to a recent article released by Johns Hopkins Medicine. COVID-19 can cause devastating and lasting symptoms that can leave survivors anxious and depressed.

Post-intensive care syndrome may occur as those with severe COVID-19 staying in the ICU for extended periods develop mind, body and emotional symptoms that last well after their intensive care is completed. sometimes for months, or even years.

Not only is there a psychological stress from COVID-19 but there is a physical threat as well. Inflammation caused by COVID-19 is a known factor in developing depression. In some cases COVID-19 may bring on physical changes that cause difficulties with thinking, remembering, and reasoning. COVID-19 causes your immune system to produce a key element that promotes inflammation: cytokines. Those with higher levels of cytokines seem to have a more severe case of COVID-19 than others. Cytokines can then raise havoc on your nervous system, increasing inflammation, and potentially lead to a depression disorder.

Does Being Depressed Increase Your Hospital Risk after Contracting COVID-19?

Unfortunately, studies show that this is true. People who are worriers, stressed, lonely, or have depression have a greater chance of being hospitalized after contracting COVID-19. Those with long-term depression were 72% more likely to be hospitalized while those who said they were persistently lonely were 81% more likely to be at risk. It is unclear exactly why this is the case and studies are currently underway.

Is it Actually Depression or the COVID-19 Blues?

With the longevity of COVID-19, it is no wonder that the majority of us are feeling the toll. We have all been through uncertainty, worry, and dramatic changes to our lifestyles. Here are some common COVID-19 blues symptoms:

  • feeling sad and a little hopeless

  • being restless and antsy

  • vague guilt

  • more irritable than normal

  • withdrawing from activities

  • avoiding friends or family

  • sleeping too much or not enough

  • weight gain or weight loss

All of these are fairly normal but the difference is in how long they last. According to Catherine Powers-James, Ph.D, a psychologist at the University of Texas MD Anderson Center, one of the best things you can do is the exact opposite of what your body is telling you to do. If you are feeling like just staying in bed all day, make yourself get up and take a walk. Make a conscious effort to take care of your physical health by getting enough sleep, exercise, eating healthier, avoiding tobacco, alcohol and drugs, and limiting your screen time. Give your mind a boost by connecting with others (whether virtually or in person), focusing on positive thoughts, and keeping a regular routine.

If some of these symptoms just don’t come in waves and stay fairly consistent for a few weeks, this can be a sign of something more serious and professional help should be found. Luckily, getting therapy is even more convenient than ever with teletherapy options readily available.

Finding Help

If you're feeling suicidal or thinking of hurting yourself, please seek help immediately and contact your primary care provider or a mental health professional. Or call a suicide hotline. In the U.S., call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) or use its webchat at suicidepreventionlifeline.org/chat.

Hoping mental health problems such as anxiety or depression will go away on their own can lead to worsening symptoms, so reach out for help if you feel you need it. Please know that you are not alone and together, we will travel your unique path to a life of balance, abundance, and joy. Feel free to reach out to me at (203) 415-5162 or visit my website at www.journeyct.com.

Andrea-Lynne DeCrosta