“Have you ever just burst into tears for no apparent reason?” my friend asked during a video call. I rolled my eyes, recalling the moment I broke down on the phone with my partner after a frustrating trip to the pharmacy. It hit me hard that we hadn’t dined out since March, and that’s when I realized: I’m experiencing the pandemic blues.
It may seem trivial—just a little more sadness or anxiety—but sometimes I look at my spouse and express how bleak life feels. When he suggests we take a safe outing, I scoff. “Where? Everyone will be unmasked, and I’ll just be infuriated,” I reply.
This isn’t surprising. The Kaiser Family Foundation reported that by mid-July, 53% of American adults felt the pandemic had negatively impacted their mental health, up from 32% in March. Additionally, 36% struggled with sleep, 32% had eating difficulties, and 12% noted increased alcohol consumption. Typically, only one in ten adults report symptoms of anxiety or depression weekly, yet in one July week, 40.1% showed clinical signs.
Are You Experiencing Pandemic Blues?
The Kaiser Family Foundation also highlighted that mental health impacts are most pronounced among those sheltering at home, particularly women with children under 18. While it’s important not to generalize, it’s likely that many women are bearing the brunt of childcare responsibilities. A more accurate term might be “primary caregivers of children under 18,” regardless of gender.
According to the Kansas Health System, by September, 30% of adults exhibited symptoms of clinical depression. The pandemic blues are real and treatable; they’re not just a byproduct of our current reality, and you don’t have to navigate them alone. If you find yourself feeling persistently sad, avoiding enjoyable activities, struggling to sleep, or feeling hopeless, you might be dealing with depression.
Anxiety also plays a role in the pandemic blues. The Rochester Health System identified symptoms during COVID-19 that include nervousness, restlessness, ongoing worry, stomach issues, and an overwhelming sense of stress. If these feelings dominate your daily life, you may be experiencing clinical anxiety.
The Seriousness of Pandemic Blues
I’m serious. For many, the feelings of anxiety and stress are not just passing moments. It’s easy to joke about feeling overwhelmed, as it seems everyone is navigating the pandemic blues. We’re all trying to cope while facing the constant threat of illness, and even simple tasks like grocery shopping can feel overwhelming.
However, it’s crucial to differentiate between occasional bouts of sadness and full-blown anxiety or depression. Many are struggling, and we should show compassion for one another. But if you find yourself stuck in a cycle of anxiety or despair, seeking professional help is essential.
Caution in Diagnosis
Psychiatric Times emphasizes that this is not a “mental health pandemic.” While surveys show symptoms, they don’t replace a thorough mental health evaluation. So, while 40% of people may report symptoms of the pandemic blues, that doesn’t automatically mean they meet clinical criteria for depression. This distinction doesn’t make these feelings any less valid or significant.
Your doctor may not have a miraculous solution, but engaging in cognitive behavioral therapy, meditation, spending time outdoors, and pursuing hobbies can be beneficial.
It’s also important to note that clinical standards for generalized anxiety disorder require symptoms to persist for six months. Many survey respondents may not meet these criteria if their symptoms began recently. But again, this doesn’t diminish the reality of their feelings. Personally, I find myself grappling with feelings of hopelessness and despair, but I manage to function in my daily life.
I acknowledge that I have pandemic blues. It’s not a clinical diagnosis, but it exists. My partner experiences it too, and we support each other. I’ve had my share of emotional breakdowns and increased drinking habits, but I’m not an alcoholic. I just cope in ways that reflect the stress of the current situation.
I do what I can to manage—stepping outside, connecting with friends through video chats, playing with my dog, and engaging in activities I enjoy. The feelings may never entirely disappear, but they become manageable.
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Summary
The pandemic blues are a genuine emotional response to prolonged stress and uncertainty. They manifest as feelings of sadness, anxiety, and hopelessness and can significantly impact daily life. While not everyone will meet clinical criteria for depression or anxiety, these feelings are real and warrant attention. Engaging in healthy coping strategies and seeking professional help when needed can make a difference.