Recent reports show that signs of clinical depression and anxiety are on the rise during the pandemic. Even if there were no previous symptoms, COVID-19 patients and their families are at a high risk to develop mental health conditions. Psychiatrist-in-chief at the Department of Psychiatry, Maurizio Fava, MD, is not surprised by this connection between mental health and COVID-19, " It's quite understandable the COVID-19 pandemic is likely to cause significant stress and psychological distress for a large proportion of the population. And we know the rates are progressively increasing." Michelle Obama has come forward about her own struggle through these trying times. She revealed that she is dealing with "low-grade depression," a condition she blames solely on President Trump.During an interview with former NPR anchor Michele Norris, the former first lady talked about the coronavirus, racial injustice, and the Trump administration. Mrs. Obama said, " I have to say, that waking up to the news, waking up to how this administration has or has not responded, waking up to yet another story of a Black man or Black person somehow being dehumanized or hurt or killed or falsely accused of something, it is exhausting. And, it has led to a weight that I haven't felt in my life in a while."Nevertheless, it is important to find ways to cope with stress, anxiety, and depression. Dr. Fave recommends getting a good night's sleep, maintain healthy eating habits, and remember to stay active."It's okay to not feel okay," says the doctor. "This is a stress affecting all of us one way or another to different degrees." Once you recognize the signs, you can find the right resources for treatment and better health.
