How Counseling Can Help You Cope During The Pandemic

It has been two years since the COVID-19 pandemic began, but the world is still dealing with its repercussions. Many people at this point have been infected with one variant or another, and far too many have lost a loved one to the virus. 

The pandemic has also certainly taken its toll on the mental health of millions of people. Staying indoors all the time, being isolated from loved ones, and constantly worrying about becoming infected can have a negative effect on even the most positive and optimistic minds. 

It’s no wonder then why so many people have turned to counseling during this time. Many people are desperate to talk to someone about their struggles and find ways to cope with this unprecedented situation. 

At this point, maybe you’re considering counseling yourself but are still unsure if it’s right for you. This article will show you the most significant ways that counseling can help you during this time and hopefully convince you to take the leap.

Stress

The increased levels of stress that the pandemic has caused cannot be exaggerated. Constantly worrying about catching the virus and developing other potential health complications can certainly lead to chronic stress and related problems. 

Furthermore, our usual sources of relief and fun are often not available anymore. Many people seek social support when dealing with stress or go out to enjoy a hobby or outing. Due to social distancing and mandated lockdowns, these options are not as available as they used to be. 

The pandemic has been on everyone’s minds for two years, so it’s no wonder that stress and overwhelm are frequent mental states. Luckily, counselors can help you develop strategies to cope and reduce your stress and live as calm of a life as possible.  

Loneliness

Loneliness is one of the most common side effects of the pandemic. 

Between losing loved ones, lockdowns, and social distancing, almost everyone has felt a touch of loneliness over the past two years. Loneliness often contributes to anxiety, depression, and other mental and physical health concerns, so it can really take its toll on someone, especially after two years of isolation. 

A counselor will be able to help you through this. Not only will they give you some tips on how to keep up your social life in a safe way, but just talking to someone may alleviate your loneliness a bit. 

Depression and Anxiety

Depression and anxiety have skyrocketed since the first lockdowns took place. According to a study published in The Lancet in 2021, there has been an estimated increase of 53.2 million cases of major depressive disorder and 76.2 million cases of anxiety disorders worldwide since the pandemic started. 

If you live with depression or anxiety, then counseling can be a great resource. Counselors can help you discover the sources of your depression and anxiety and develop strategies and treatments for coping with the negative thoughts and emotions. 

Grief

Unfortunately, at this stage of the pandemic, many of us have experienced grief. Either we lost a loved one to the virus or know someone who has. With more than 5.6 million deaths worldwide, it is becoming harder and harder to find someone who has not experienced loss during this time. 

Counselors are trained to help with grief, whether related to the pandemic or not. Discussing your pain and loss with a counselor can help you heal and begin to feel whole again. Your counselor can navigate each stage of grief with you and help you cope with the challenge of living without your loved one. 

Career Changes

One interesting societal shift that resulted from the pandemic is that many people are making career changes. 

This is primarily because many people have spent more time working from home and now have a renewed sense of priorities. They have found a new purpose in their families and hobbies now that they don’t have to spend so much time at the office. As a result, many people are switching to careers that are more meaningful, pay better, and offer a better work/life balance. 

If you are one of these people, then discussing these changes with a counselor may be beneficial. A counselor can help you discover what you are passionate about and how to turn that into a rewarding and fulfilling career. They can also help you with all the negative emotions and thoughts that may come up with this transition, such as self-doubt, fear, and imposter syndrome. 

Final Thoughts

When the pandemic began in 2020, very few people expected it to last until 2022. The constant fear and isolation have taken their toll on many people around the globe. 

So if you have been struggling for the past two years, rest assured that you are not alone. By talking with a licensed counselor, you can find strategies for coping with this world event and create a healthy and positive new normal.