myTalk Mental Health Month

Millions of Americans are affected by mental health conditions every year, ranging from major depression, anxiety disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and others.

COVID-19 is impacting many aspects of life; physical & mental health, daily routines and sources of stress. The outbreak of COVID-19 can be overwhelming causing strong emotions in adults and children.This pandemic has the potential to exacerbate existing conditions or present new challenges for individuals who haven’t previously addressed mental health concerns as they seek ways to cope with fear and anxiety.

The impact of mental illness are vast, especially during a global pandemic but there is help. Talk to your doctor, connect with friends and family, educate yourself about mental illness. We’ve compiled facts and resources to share as we celebrate Mental Health Month.

Mental Health by the Numbers

• Approximately 1 in 5 adults in the U.S experiences mental illness in a given year.
• 19% of U.S. adults with mental illness also have a substance use disorder
• Approximately 1 in 6 youth aged 6–17 experience a mental disorder each year
• 50% of all lifetime mental illness begins by age 14, and 75% by age 24

Covid-19 Effects on Mental Health

Stress during an infectious disease outbreak can include:

• Fear and worry about your own health and the health of your loved ones
• Changes in sleep or eating patterns
• Difficulty sleeping or concentrating
• Worsening of chronic health problems
• Worsening of mental health conditions
• Increased alcohol and substance use

Learn more from the Center for Disease Control & Prevention.

Common Diagnoses from Care Counseling

• Depression: Depression is when you feel helpless, hopeless, and worthless for days or weeks at a time and it keeps you from living your life to the fullest.
  Learn more about Depression
• Anxiety: Anxiety is normal and it can motivate you to work hard and perform well. However, excessive anxiety and worry that is difficult to control and interferes with everyday activities may be a sign of something more serious.
  Learn more about Anxiety
• Grief & Loss: Grief is a natural response that occurs when you lose someone or something that’s important to you, such as the death of a family member or friend, divorce, or retirement.
  Learn more about Grief & Loss
• Addiction: Addiction literally changes how the brain works and changes chosen behaviors to compulsive actions.
  Learn more about addiction
• Children & Adolescents: Parents often feel frustrated and sometime inadequate with not knowing how to help…
  Learn more about child psychology