The COVID-19 disease has been very contagious this year. New research has shown that one in five people diagnosed with COVID-19 is also diagnosed with a mental illness like anxiety, depression, or insomnia within three months. Addressing your mental health issues is one of the most important things you can do while you are tackling COVID-19. How you feel mentally can help how you feel physically.
New Study of Mental Illness in COVID-19 Patients
The University of Oxford studied the electronic health records of 69.8 million patients in the U.S. as well as more than 62,000 diagnosed with COVID-19. Compared to those with certain mental health conditions this year like influenza, kidney stones, or a major bone fracture, those with COVID-19 were more likely to have a psychiatric disorder in 14 to 90 days after diagnosis. People recovering from COVID-19 were twice as likely to be diagnosed with a mental health disorder compared to someone with the flu. Likewise, people with a psychiatric diagnosis were about 65% more likely to be diagnosed with COVID-19 compared to those without. Fear of COVID-19 can explain increased anxiety or depression, but it is unclear why those with mental illness seem to be more susceptible to contracting COVID-19.
Anxiety Disorders in COVID-19 Patients
Researchers were able to determine that someone hospitalized for COVID-19 had a higher risk of getting a psychiatric disorder compared to someone who did not need hospitalization. Getting diagnosed with COVID-19 involves feelings of anxiety, fear, sadness, and isolation. Some recovered COVID-19 patients have sleep problems and distressing dreams. It might be things like waking up and feeling like you are back in the hospital. It might also be bringing back memories of having difficulties breathing or feeling like you were going to die. Feeling like you are going to die can bring up anxiety in itself. If you aren’t sick, leaving loved ones all alone for treatment creates mental distress.
Feeling Grateful
While anxiety was one feeling that COVID-19 patients had, another was feeling grateful. They felt thankful that their friends and family were there for them and grateful for life. When these patients have survived COVID-19, they felt like they were getting a second chance at life. However, it is very important that if you are experiencing feelings of anxiety or depression while you have COVID-19 that you speak to a therapist.
At Alta Loma Transformational Living, you will meet knowledgeable, compassionate professionals that understand addiction in all its forms. Alta Loma uses an integrative and holistic approach to treat addiction and mental health issues. No treatment is one-size-fits-all, where you will have a team of experts prepared to create your customized treatment plan. We offer care for your mind, body, and spirit, so that you can heal from the inside out and look forward to a lifetime of sobriety and wellness. If you are ready to take the first step in your recovery, please call us at 866-457-3843.
