3 Reasons Why COVID 19 is Triggering Anxiety & Trauma Symptoms in New York
People that have experienced trauma or who have PTSD often report symptoms like having nightmares or feeling as if they can’t escape their trauma. Although, many times these nightmares or flashbacks are bits and pieces of trauma replayed, many times it’s not.
Often, feeling stuck in a trauma actually has more to do with re-experiencing the negative emotions that you felt during your trauma, such as fear, anxiety, or helplessness, rather than the actual trauma memory. It’s also very common for the scent of a perfume, loud screaming, or a particular taste to take people back to their traumatic experience. For trauma experts, this makes a lot of sense because we know that trauma is not just stored in our brains but is also stored in our bodies and in our senses.
So when we are going through a crisis, like we all currently are with the coronavirus pandemic, our mindset is no longer in “living” and “thriving” but rather “surviving”. This switch in mindset can have us feeling anxious, scared, and helpless, triggering our trauma and anxiety symptoms.
Here are some reasons Covid-19 can be triggering mental health concerns for people:
SOCIAL DISTANCING
From a public health perspective, social distancing makes sense. Stay-at-home orders are an absolute must to flatten the curve and reduce the number of people exposed to the coronavirus. Social distancing works but it will take some time to see results. This means that even though in New York, where we are currently in quarantine, we have no idea how long this will last. People all around the world are finding unique ways to stay connected to loved ones (I definitely am!). But, we can’t deny that Zoom videos and phone calls with friends and family are just not the same as being in person. Feeling isolated from others can be triggering for people who have anxiety and trauma histories. Because, usually those symptoms already make it difficult to connect and engage with others. Social distancing right now is adding to that.
If you’re in New York, you’ve been waiting for Spring to come. Looking forward to warmer weather. Enjoying more sunlight. Even having some fun during Spring Break! Now, you’re not able to enjoy any of it right now because you’re stuck at home. All of this can make your trauma, anxiety, and depression symptoms worse. Also, if you’re home with someone who triggers your anxiety or plays a direct role in your trauma, your symptoms may also be much higher than your norm.
INCREASED HEALTH ANXIETY & WORRY
We’re scared. All of us. Maybe, some more than others. However, it’s natural right now to be worried about exposure to coronavirus or someone we love actually getting it. We’re washing our hands more than usual. Now, being extra mindful of what we touch. Even using gloves and masks if we have to go pick up groceries. Staying far away from people when in public places. And, the list goes on. Whether you struggled with anxiety before the pandemic or not, I’m sure you're noticing an increase in your anxiety now. An increase in anxious thoughts is understandable given our circumstances.
DECREASED WORK AND FINANCIAL SECURITY DURING COVID
Since the pandemic started, many people have gotten laid off. Others have gotten their hours cut. And, businesses -big and small- have been deeply affected. Of course, there is a lot of uncertainty right now. And, with that comes anxiety and fear. There is an even greater concern about financial stability and being able to afford basic necessities. Right now, many people are not going to prioritize their mental wellness. As a mental health counselor, this is particularly concerning. Because, many people who need the support now and for months to come won’t be thinking about this because other needs have to be prioritized.
The list can go on and on about how the COVID 19 pandemic is affecting not just our physical health but our mental health too. Make sure you are taking care of yourself. Practice being kind to yourself. Especially if you notice that your mental health symptoms are worsening.
These are difficult times right now. You are doing the best you can.
You matter. Your body matters. Your mind matters.
Be safe & Be well.
Dr. G
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