A Note From Dr. Lyn, PhD, LMFT

As the U.S. begins to feel some of the weight of the pandemic shift out of the acute phase; for some, the anxiety and depression experienced as a result may start to resolve itself as they get back into the routines of life and reconnect with family and friends.

But, for others they may face new or increasingly intense mental health struggles that persist, some of these struggles may feel even larger and more challenging than before. Survey data shows that since March 2020, the percentage of people reporting depression and anxiety has spiked, and it remains elevated.

During emergencies people often get through it by focusing on just getting through it, I know I did. The additional piece to that is; once the immediate crisis begins to lift a bit and someone feels as if they’ve gotten through it, often the full gravity of what they’ve been through suddenly hits harder than expected. Covid-19 has become similar to a chronic stressor even though its ebbed and flowed, it hasn’t disappeared for over a year. For some that’s creating a lingering level of depression and anxiety that may result in fear that it will never get better, but it can.

Recovery from high stress events takes some time, although healing can and will happen. Healing comes in the form of a true wrap around model of self-care. Getting mental health support to process and work through any thoughts, feelings and fear is key as well as taking extra good care of your body and diet in ways that support repair, rejuvenation and sustainable healing and progress. I’m always available for an initial consultation to listen and support your goals. From there we can collaborate and start you on your plan to a successful path of healing.
Lyn Rowbotham, PhD, LMFT