A recent study by Metlife found that the pandemic has had quite an impact on Americans’ mental health, especially younger employees. The study found that Gen Z workers were three times more likely to seek professional help for mental health during COVID-19 than other age groups.
Causes For Increase In Stress
The study found that most Millennial and Gen Z workers who had increases in stress and anxiety sited reduced in-person interaction with their families and loved ones as a major reason, with 4 in 10 Gen Z and 56% of Millennial respondents saying this. 47% of Gen Z respondents cited not being able to connect with coworkers in person as a cause for the increased level of stress and anxiety.
Since the beginning of the COVID-19 outbreak, many people have been being very cautious about when and how often they see their loved ones. The balance to be struck between a mentally healthy level of interaction and safety during COVID is very hard to strike, and this has taken a big toll on the mental health of many working young adults.
Managing Mental Health During COVID
The CDC has a small list of ways to cope with increased stress during COVID-19 including taking breaks from watching news stories, taking care of your body through healthy diets and exercise, taking time to unwind, and connecting with others virtually. Another useful way to relieve stress is to get out into nature.
Still, others site stress management and wellness programs as ways to cope with the help of a mental health professional.
Stigma Surrounds Mental Health Help
All around the world, there has been a powerful stigma around mental illness and seeking help for mental health issues. Many people who could be aided greatly from seeking professional help do not because of the stigma around needing help. The study found that only 1 out of 12 people who had negative mental health effects from the pandemic sought help and many of those who did not get help cited the stigma around mental help as part of the reason. If you or someone you love needs mental health help during these difficult times, do not let this stop you from getting the help you need.
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