The COVID-19 pandemic impacted several areas of our lives, including our emotional health. Several studies have shown increases in emotional concerns such as stress, anxiety and depression since March 2020. The holiday season can also be an emotionally challenging time for people. Knowing the signs of emotional suffering can help you recognize when you or someone you love may need to seek help. The Campaign to Change Direction (https://www.changedirection.org/) outlines the 5 Signs of Emotional Suffering:
- Personality change in a way that seems different for that person
- Agitation or displaying anger, anxiety or moodiness
- Withdrawal or isolation from others
- Poor self-care and perhaps engaging in risky behavior
- Hopelessness, or feelings of being overwhelmed and worthless
What can we do to address these signs?
- Take care of ourselves by eating healthy, getting enough sleep and remaining active.
- Check-in with our doctors, friends, families and other important people in our lives.
- Engage with loved ones and maintain healthy relationships.
- Relax in our favorite ways such as meditation, cooking, gardening, reading and more!
- Know the fives signs of emotional suffering and when we might need help.
Take a pledge to know the 5 signs!
Check out this page for a list of resources in NH and nationally: https://extension.unh.edu/mentalhealth
SAMHSA also shares some tips for managing stress related to pandemics: https://store.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/SAMHSA_Digital_Download/PEP20-01-01-020%20PDF%20508c.pdf
The Campaign to Change Direction is a coalition of concerned citizens, nonprofit leaders, and leaders from the private sector who have come together to change the culture in America about mental health, mental illness, and wellness.
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