2020 was a rough year for most people. Even though many Americans received promotions, had babies, got married, etc., the year was overshadowed by the deep and lasting impact of the pandemic. Hundreds of thousands of people have died from the coronavirus, and, while the vaccine is now rolling out, there is no end in sight. In many places across the country, kids are still out of school, unemployment rates are still high, and many of the activities we enjoy are suspended.
One of the biggest impacts of the pandemic has been the increased levels of isolation most people feel regularly. Things like going to church, gyms, and even office spaces, are where people traditionally go to feel social interaction. It’s where we develop bonds with other people and feel the nourishment of mutual connection. Covid-19 disrupted all of that, and in its wake are higher instances of depression, anxiety, and stress.
Dealing with depression is difficult anytime, but can be especially challenging during a pandemic. If you or someone you love is struggling with depression, there are things you can do to improve the situation and move toward a happier, more fulfilling life.
Maintain Connections
In a time when you are discouraged from spending time with friends, seeing friends at classes, and gathering with friends for the holidays, staying connected is tough. However, maintaining connections is exactly what you need to do when depression is hitting or circling. The biggest thing you need to do is reach out to people more often to check-in. If it’s you that is feeling down, tell your friends and family. Let them know that you are having a hard time.
It may not be possible to meet at restaurants or go over to each other’s houses. There are fewer dinner parties to speak of as well. Instead, you can meet over zoom, text message, and email to hold on to relationships until the pandemic passes. If necessary, put appointments in your calendar to check in on people you care about. Caring for others is a great way to beat back depression in your own life.
Get Some Exercise
Your physical health has a direct correlation to how you feel inside. Getting your physical health in better shape will improve your mental state. Gratefully, exercise, especially outdoor exercise, is something that we can still do during the pandemic. Get outside for a walk or a jog. Set goals and slowly work your way to accomplishing them. You’ll feel better about yourself as your physical condition improves and you’ll get the feeling of accomplishment from meeting or exceeding your goals.
To improve your social connections at the same time, start or join an exercise group with friends for some friendly competition. You can hold each other accountable and make it a fun group activity.
Seek Professional Help When Necessary
Minor depression and feeling sad about the state of affairs related to Covid-19 is completely understandable. You might even question people who say they haven’t been affected by what’s been going on. However, you need to closely monitor your mental health and the mental health of the people around you to make sure it doesn’t slide into unhealthy territory. When depression starts to prevent you from getting work done, caring for yourself or any dependents, and triggering damaging thoughts, then it’s time to get help.
Help for depression can come in many forms. You can join a support group, meet with a therapist, or get medical help from a doctor in the form of antidepressant medication. Most medical professionals and support groups have adopted digital meeting solutions so you can talk to them and get prescriptions virtually instead of having to meet face to face. The right medical support will arm you with the tools you need to battle depression and overcome its effects.
Peptides and Depression
The peptide Selank was developed in Russia and is a synthetic analog of Tuftsin. Selank has been tested in clinical trials centered on anxiety treatment. Research in rats showed that Selank resulted in lower levels of anxiety and stress. The subjects also appear to exhibit lower levels of depression. The results were compared to common benzodiazepines, and it was found that Selank had similar results without the common symptoms of fatigue, headaches, or high blood pressure.
Start a New Hobby
Learning something new and staying engaged is a terrific way to fight depression. While the pandemic has limited what we can do, there are still a lot of options available. Covid-19 has spawned inventive ways for people to get together and socialize. There are trivia groups that span the country and people are doing yoga in front of phones and tablets all over the place. You can hire a virtual piano teacher to walk you through the basics of reading sheet music or start a cooking class online.
Whatever you decide to do, stay on top of your mental condition to prevent a slide into depression. Tell your friends when you’re feeling down and ask for help when you need it. Pay attention to the weather, shows, music, friends, and anything else that triggers depressive episodes. Stick with things that improve your mood rather than drag you down. Listen to uplifting music, watch happy shows or movies, and get outside to breathe some fresh air to regulate your mood and get through the struggles of the pandemic in a more healthy condition.