In recent years, mental health has been a growing area of discussion; the beginnings of a global acceptance to what has previously been overlooked or pushed aside. Of particular concern, especially in America, is the state of children’s mental health.

While COVID-19 turned the world as we knew it upside down, data from the last several years shows that children’s mental health was already on a downward trend. US Surgeon General, Vivek Murthy, declared adolescent mental health a public concern stating, “Even before the pandemic, an alarming number of young people struggled with feelings of helplessness, depression, and thoughts of suicide — and rates have increased over the past decade.”

Recent studies show that the pandemic exacerbated this already growing mental health crisis in our youth. In response, many parents and school systems are taking a proactive approach to address these mental health concerns and ensure children are receiving adequate care and attention.

Children’s Mental Health Pre-Pandemic

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), prior to the pandemic, mental health challenges were the leading cause of disability and poor life outcomes in young people. Roughly 1 in 5 children, aged 3 to 17 in the U.S. meet the criteria for a mental, emotional, developmental, or behavioral disorder.

Pre-COVID, teachers, guidance counselors, and school psychologists would identify changes in behavior or symptoms of mental distress and connect those kids to resources, acting as an observer and form of “first responder” who triages and refers.

How COVID-19 Changed The Response

That model proved challenging, however, when schools transitioned to a virtual learning environment. Within the first year of the pandemic, many children who developed symptoms related to their mental health did not receive help right away.

This gap in identification and referral occurred for many reasons. Resources were strained, school staff members were experiencing their own mental health concerns, and more students than not were experiencing mental unrest so it was deemed the “norm considering the circumstances.” In general, school administrators’ focus was on adjusting and adapting to this brand new way of teaching and learning, prioritizing curriculum and content in attempt to raise test scores as they were the lowest they’d been in 30 years.

Luckily, the nation was aware of the crisis and in March of 2021, President Biden passed The American Rescue Plan Act. The law included $170 billion in school funding, a large portion of which was allocated to address and uphold the mental health of students. Just over 6 months later, in October, the Biden administration and U.S. Department of Education released new guidance for schools to better help students’ mental health needs.

Despite the funding, resources, and guidance, however, in December 2021, the U.S. Surgeon General issued the Advisory on Protecting Youth Mental Health, a document which outlines the pandemic’s unprecedented impacts on the mental health of America’s youth and families. Additionally, it discusses the mental health challenges that existed before the pandemic (e.g. the shortage of child psychologists, school guidance counselors, and the disparities of access to school and community-based mental health care).

Especially in this moment, as we work to protect the health of Americans in the face of a new variant, we also need to focus on how we can emerge stronger on the other side. This advisory shows us how we can all work together to step up for our children during this dual crisis.

Current Trends In Children’s Mental Health

Since the onset of COVID-19, children and adolescents have experienced an upheaval of the very things that helped them to feel a sense of safety and security during important developmental stages of their lives.

Many of our youth have experienced unprecedented grief, loss, and hardship over the past several years. They’ve lost loved ones and caregivers, they’ve been isolated and disconnected from their peers and lost the ability to be completely carefree.  They’ve had to worry about catching COVID-19 and had to learn to adapt to their new schooling environment. Many young people and their families witnessed financial insecurities and uncertainties regarding food and necessary household supplies like toilet paper. They have been exposed to images of social injustices, the insurrection of US Capitol, and heart wrenching gun violence in countless settings from malls to concert venues to churches and schools.

In the Fall of 2022, many children returned to a physical classroom bringing with them their experiences from the last few years and many other unseen stressors and traumas. Due to the increasing prevalence and threat of gun violence, students are not only faced with adjusting to new changes, new people and faces, new routines, and COVID-related precautions, but must also learn and adjust to active shooter safety protocols. All the while, many children are exhibiting developmentally delayed social skills and rusty time management and organizational skills.

Initially, school staff and administration thought that returning to school would create long-sought normalcy, yet soon discovered that children were experiencing mental health fallout and residue of the disruptions of the past nearly 3 years. In fact, in the 2021-22 academic year, 76% of US public schools reported increased concerns around students showing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and trauma, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.

Signs And Symptoms Of Mental Distress In Children And Adolescents

Often, children and adolescents don’t always have the proper language or knowledge of how to articulate their emotions. Subsequently, signs of anxiety, stress, and depression mimic emotional and behavioral disorders that may present (in no particular order) in the following ways:

• Skipping, missing, or walking out of class
• Turning in homework late or not all
• Sleeping in class
• Defiance with authority figures
• Disruptive behaviors like arguing, angry outbursts, or humor at inappropriate times
• Low frustration tolerance, appear to give up quickly
• Disinterest in extracurricular activities
• Hypersensitivity (easily hurt feelings, easily angered and agitated)
• Crying frequently (often without knowing why)
• Changes in appetite
• Insomnia and/or not wanting to sleep alone
• Bed wetting
• Self-deprecating comments
• Isolation and withdrawal
• Somatic complaints of feeling sick and headaches
• Experimental use of mood-altering substances
• Difficulty focusing, staying on task, distractibility, restlessness, and forgetfulness
• Self-harm or hurting others
• Comments of hopelessness, passive death wish or suicide

Suicide: An Increased Concern For Children’s Mental Health

In October of 2021, the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry declared the state of children’s mental health a national emergency. Across the nation emergency rooms have seen an alarming increase of self-injurious behavior and thoughts of suicide.

As we see in the news, suicide can seemingly come out of nowhere, so well hidden beneath the victim’s smile and happy demeanor. Families, school systems, and communities must be alert and aware of signs and symptoms of suicidal ideation and passive death wishes. Pediatricians and/or mental health professionals should screen all kids for mental health distress.

New Suicide Helpline

In July of this year, 988 was designated as the new three-digit dialing code that will route callers to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline which is open and operating 24/7.

When people call or text 988, they will be connected to counsellors who are part of the existing Lifeline network. These mental health professionals are trained to listen with empathy, provide support, and connect the caller to resources if necessary. It is important to note that the previous Lifeline number (1-800-273-8255) will still (and always) remain operational and thus available to people in suicidal crisis.

Continued Mental Health Awareness And Support Is Necessary

During this continued transition to a new normal, we must remember many kids are feeling anxious and struggling to get back into routines. Now more than ever, we must embody the timeless adage: it takes a village. Families, school systems, and communities need to remain diligent and aware of the myriad of mental health challenges plaguing our nation’s young people and commit to providing the support and resources they require.

If you are worried about your child’s mental health, especially as we enter the holiday season, don’t hesitate to get help now. Learn more about online therapy options from the comfort of your own home and take the first step today.

Try Online Therapy

Get professional help from an addiction and mental health counselor from BetterHelp by phone, video, or live-chat.

Take the Quiz. Get Matched. Begin Therapy.

GET STARTED NOW

Online therapy can help you with long term addiction support. Connect with a therapist from Talkspace anytime, anywhere.

Get matched with a therapist now.

GET STARTED NOW

Begin making positive changes with Online-Therapy.com. Quality online therapy, from the comfort of home.

Answer a few questions to get started.

GET STARTED NOW

Paid Advertising. We may receive advertising fees if you follow links to promoted online therapy websites.

The post Back To School: Children’s Mental Health Requires Support appeared first on Addiction Center.

The COVID-19 pandemic has taken more lives in the United States than World War I, the Vietnam War, and the Korean War combined (Hennein & Lowe, 2020; American Psychological Association [APA], 2020). In addition to the death toll impact, there are significant public health impacts in homes and communities on a global scale.

As a substance abuse counselor and employee assistance professional during this time, I have observed several notable changes in mental health and substance use since the onset of the pandemic in 2020.

The necessary social distancing and quarantine measures . . . significantly amplified emotional turmoil by substantially changing the social fabric by which individuals, families, communities, and nations cope with tragedy. The effect is multidimensional disruption of employment, finances, education, health care, food security, transportation, recreation, cultural and religious practices, and the ability of personal support networks and communities to come together and grieve.

By now you have seen and/or experienced the impact of the “emotional turmoil” and “multidimensional disruption” as stated above. The impacts include, but are not limited to, social isolation, constant close quarter living, unpredictability of how our lives have changed, collective grief of loved ones, missed celebrations of milestones (e.g., graduations, weddings etc.), stress (work and home), fear,  financial insecurity, job changes, decrease in healthcare insurance for substance use treatment, waiting list for substance use treatment, untreated mental health disorders, changes in access to medication, changes in drug supply, and an exacerbation of pre-existing medical conditions. In general, peoples’ eating and sleeping habits, hygiene, activity levels, and daily routines changed. Life changed as we knew it.

As a result, and not surprisingly, several research studies on the effects of the pandemic have found increased anxiety, depression, traumatic stress, and substance use in the general population.

Increased Anxiety, Depression, Traumatic Stress, And Substance Use

What did that look like from my role as a mental health provider and substance abuse counselor? By May 2020, some of my clients were already experiencing daily anxiety attacks, insomnia, lack of motivation, energy, and focus, domestic disputes, frequent crying spells, co-worker conflict, decreased appetite, and increased headaches/migraines (just to name a few).

Three months later, my caseload was exploding and was busting at the seams with those in need of services. The intensity and severity of my clients’ presenting problems were growing. Clients were presenting with thoughts of hopelessness and suicide. My colleagues were having the same experience with their clients.

Rehabilitation centers and mental health providers scrambled to safely develop protocols and embrace technology to effectively meet the needs of their patients. Telehealth/telemedicine was an acceptable practice prior to the pandemic; however, it became the go-to modality of care and was backed by the US Department of Health and Human Services to allow for insurance reimbursement.

While providing services via telehealth, my colleagues and I noticed that the symptoms of people with pre-existing mental health conditions worsened and people with no prior mental health conditions were experiencing symptoms for the first time.

Similarly, people with a history of a moderate to severe substance use disorder, in full sustained remission, were facing challenges to maintain abstinence prior to the advent of virtual support groups and people with a mild substance use disorder were increasing their frequency and amount of drinking alcohol, smoking Cannabis, and experimenting with other mood-altering substances often progressing to the point of needing some level of treatment.

A Word On The Overdose Epidemic

In addition to the pandemic, an epidemic, which predated the pandemic, was happening concurrently; the Opioid overdose epidemic. Increases in drug overdoses and overdose related deaths to synthetic Opioids (primarily Fentanyl) accelerated during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Data from the CDC National Center for Health Statistics indicate that there were an estimated 100,306 drug overdose deaths in the United States during the 12-month period ending in April 2021, an increase of 28.5% from the deaths during the same period the year before.

Overdose deaths from psychostimulants such as Methamphetamine also increased in the 12-month period ending in April 2021.

Final Thoughts

It is not my intention to simplify or to conflate all increased drug use or mental health symptoms directly with COVID-19; however, there are undeniably some effects from living through a pandemic.

For example, shifts in drug availability may also be to blame for increased illicit Opioid use deaths; if Heroin isn’t easy to access, someone might begin take Fentanyl, which is much more potent. Another common example is a person turning to alcohol to relieve symptoms of anxiety and promote sleep slowly progressing to increased frequency (sometimes daily and throughout the day) and amount.

Experts agree based on research and clinical observation that pandemic-related strains, from economic stress and loneliness to general anxiety about the virus, and lack of healthy coping skills to manage progressively worsening symptoms, are significant influences for the increases in the observations stated in this article.

The ground is fertile as we continue to learn how we all continue to navigate through this pandemic. Evidence based practices are being researched, developed and implemented for the most effective and safest way to treat mental health and substance use during theses times.

These have been challenging times for us all. I have witnessed the most valiant and courageous efforts in my clients and colleagues. I am grateful to be a part of the community that is striving to make a difference.

Available Resources

For assistance finding a rehab that treats substance abuse or mental health disorders, contact a treatment provider for free information on insurance coverage, treatment methods, and enrollment into a licensed facility.

Check if my insurance covers rehab

Addiction Center is not affiliated with any insurance.

The post The Way COVID-19 Changed Mental Health And Addiction appeared first on Addiction Center.

From mask-wearing to Zoom meetings to more Americans experiencing the #workfromhome life, the onset and continuation of the COVID-19 pandemic has severely impacted the way we all live and experience our lives. However, while many adults have more or less smoothly transitioned to this new largely virtual lifestyle, children are having a much harder time adjusting. While health professionals and others in the industry have been seeing higher levels of mental health maladies in the nation’s youth, in the Fall of 2020, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) declared an emergency in children’s mental health.

Nationwide, numbers have been surging as more and more children are showing signs of mental distress. In the first 9 months of 2021, 38 children’s hospitals across the United States saw more than 47,000 visits to the emergency department for mental health crises; 40% higher than the same period in 2020. In some instances, families seeking outpatient mental care were faced with a wait time of anywhere from 3 weeks to 9 months.

Schooling In A “Post”-COVID World

Before the pandemic even reached our shores, children’s mental health had been on the radar of concern. In 2019, 1 in every 3 high school students reported persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness and 1 in 5 children aged 3-17 were diagnosed with a mental, emotional, developmental, or behavioral disorder. COVID-19 has done nothing but exacerbate these already alarming trends. Across the country, schools are seeing kids acting out, exhibiting behaviors typical of ages and grades much younger. Some schools have seen higher numbers in violence against authority as well as rises in self-harm as well as suicidal thoughts and attempts.

Dr. Tami Benton, psychiatrist-in-chief at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, attributes much of the behavioral issues and overall aggression to the return of regular schooling, explaining that the time away from the structure and “normalcy” of school has hindered a great deal of social and behavioral skills. Kids are missing out on those life experiences that help teach them both the importance of emotional regulation and how to do it. Even now that many districts have resumed in-person learning, “you’re sort of catching up on all of that under extraordinary circumstances,” Benton explains.

Challenges In Treating Children’s Mental Health

Due to the nature of the institution, in many cases, schools were “first responders” in terms of noticing children’s mental health and anything out of the ordinary or “neuro-diverse.” However, with the increased prevalence of virtual schooling, a lot of issues that might have been caught earlier are slipping through the cracks. Not to mention the fact that even when school was regularly conducted in person, many districts suffered from a lack of guidance counselors and other mental health personnel – a result of inadequate funding, certainly even worse in lower income areas.

Nationally, an estimated 175,000 children lost a parent or primary caregiver to COVID-19 and because of already skewed systematic inequities, children of color are disproportionately affected. “There are some children who have lost generations of family members and then [must go] [to] school…and manage that stress without necessarily having a therapist available or a school counselor or nurse,” youth psychiatrist and chief medical officer of a telehealth company, Dr. Nicole Christian-Brathwaite expresses. Mariana Souto-Manning, president of Erickson Institute (a child development-centered graduate school) explains also that there is also an issue with a lack of insurance in many cases and a shortage in bilingual providers that might better serve other language-speaking communities.

Working Toward Sustainability

In response to the numbers, the incidents, and the general morale of students, schools are benefiting from small amounts of national aid in the form of the CARES and American Rescue Acts. These funds provide school districts the resources to hire more counselors and social workers to help combat this children’s mental health crisis. Some schools have even reached out to various mental health professionals asking for ways in which their administrators can better support and care for the mental health of their students amidst this continuously challenging and confusing time. Some states, like Kentucky and Massachusetts, are toying with new bills that would grant students mental health days, built like sick days, into their school schedule. If passed, the bills would allow children time off to receive care or simply to regroup, prioritize self-care, and establish a stronger sense of interconnectedness with their thoughts, feelings, and emotions.

The way in which we are living and continuously moving forward, while certainly an improvement, is still not necessarily sustainable and it is important to be aware of the ways we approach and interact with children. Souto-Manning says, “whether it’s online or in person is not as important as if the people who are educating and supporting their development and their families are well. So it’s really important for us during this time to attend to adult well-being in mental health, so that we’re not projecting onto children so that we are not causing issues and really exacerbating some of their anxieties.” Too often we seem to forget just how impressionable and perceptive young people are; monitoring our own mental health might be paramount in addressing children’s mental health, especially considering the height of the stakes.

In general, the world is still reeling from all the events of the past few years and it is reflected in the mental healthcare market. Across the board, from adolescents to adults, there is a need for care and support and a gaping lack when it comes to service providers.

Oversaturated Need For Mental Health Care

Speaking of the general population and the increased need for mental healthcare, co-medical director of psychiatry for Roper St. Francis, Dr. Sarah Coker explains the pressure that she and so many other mental health providers are experiencing:

I’ve talked to other psychiatrists in the community. They’re working on days off. They’re opening Saturday clinics just because there are so many people needing treatment for depression and anxiety. There’s no physical way to meet the demand of how many people need help right now. There are just not enough providers for the number of patients.

With no other alternative, those who are struggling with intense feelings of anxiety, depression, loss, grief, or guilt must continue to soldier on with or without treatment.

More and more, mental health and how to care for it has become normalized. More and more, it is paramount that we treat the minds of our nation’s youth with the same level (if not more) of care for their internal wellbeing.

Check if my insurance covers rehab

Addiction Center is not affiliated with any insurance.

Speak With A Treatment Provider Today

Unnoticed and untreated, mental health disorders can lead to substance abuse and addiction. Sometimes, anything that quiets the thoughts and numbs the senses comes as a relief to the whirring inside. If you are noticing habits or behaviors in yourself or a child you love that are concerning, remember that you are not alone. There are treatment professionals that specialize in varying forms of therapy and inpatient and outpatient services. Call or chat with a treatment provider for free to discuss any questions about treatment options. Reach out today.

The post Children’s Mental Health Crisis; Is COVID-19 To Blame? appeared first on Addiction Center.

Approaching the 2-year mark of the pandemic’s beginning, the once uniform look of in-person work-life has transformed into a mushy hybrid of remote, at-home, and in-person work. Catching up with a co-worker at the water cooler has shifted into a flurry of Slack messages and never-ending Zoom meetings, which makes many feel overwhelmed and understimulated. Working in a changing environment can lead to worry, stress, uncertainty, and loneliness, which can harm our mental health. Additionally, studies have revealed mixed results between the positive benefits and adverse health consequences of working from home. 

Needless to say, transitioning to working from home is a significant disruption of routine, which, to be honest, is never enjoyable. This disruption can lead to an increase of loneliness, anxiety, or depression. However, there are tangible things that you can do to regulate your day-to-day to avoid the doom and gloom of monotonous work. 

The Psychological Impacts Of Working From Home

According to a 2021 survey run by the American Psychiatric Association (APA), most individuals who work from home reported negative impacts on their mental health. Due to the watered-down boundaries between work and home spaces, many found difficulty turning off their laptops and their minds at the end of the day. A couple more minutes wrapping up an assignment turns into countless hours that bleed into the night. According to recent studies, the feeling of “never being able to leave the office” led to 82% of remote workers reporting feelings of burnout, stress, and increased pressure.  

Additionally, remote work eliminates day-to-day interactions with colleagues like discussing weekend plans, work frustrations, and swapping stories. This camaraderie doesn’t translate as well over web interfaces, and some find that they spend hours or days without speaking to others. This disconnectivity from your co-workers and the rest of the world may make you feel lonely and isolated. Loneliness is associated with higher depression, anxiety, and somatic symptoms like random pain. 

Multiple surveys concluded that the physical and mental health impacts of working from home vary considerably. This variability can be based on factors like childcare and the demands of home, level of support from employers, and extent of social connections outside of work.

Benefits Of WFH Life

While studies highlight some adverse consequences that have surfaced from remote work, there are some highlights for employees with a home base. These benefits include:

• Less commute stress
• Increased time flexibility 
• Location independence 
• Customizable office
• Less exposure to illness
• Greater productivity

Tips To Improve Your Mental Health While Working From Home

Taking care of your mental health is just as important as your physical health, but sometimes mental wellness is not viewed as such. Managing and checking up on your brain can be difficult, but there are some activities that you can do to help keep your brain a happy camper amidst all the changes and uncertainty of this time. 

Establish A Routine

Keep to a routine with a clear start and finish time in a designated workspace. While it is tempting to work from the couch or bed, having a designated area to focus on work can help separate your work and home space. On the same note, getting dressed for the day the same way you would if you were going into the office can help boost productivity. Take some time to hop in the shower, put on your favorite outfit, and put your best foot forward for the day. 

Moreso, give yourself regular breaks. It can be tempting to chug straight through hours of work, but your eyes and body will thank you if you get up and do a little wiggle. 

Move That Body

Beyond giving your body the occasional wiggle, implementing stretching, walking, dancing, bike riding, whatever you fancy, into your day can help recenter your mental and physical health. Exercising daily for 20 to 30 minutes can significantly lower anxiety levels and boost endorphins and serotonin. As someone constantly staring at a computer screen, going on a daily walk allows me to calm my anxieties, rest my eyes, and appreciate the beauty of nature. Studies have also linked outdoor walks with lower blood pressure and stress hormones. 

Work With Other People

This tip may sound strange in the context of remote work, but there are options for those who would like to work around others. For those who miss the white noise of collective pecking at keyboards and muffled conversation, venturing out to a local coffee shop, library, or co-working space can help mimic a similar environment. If you cannot venture out into society, countless videos on YouTube are available as background noise fillers. These videos can add some much-needed ambiance to the quietness that can exist from working at home. 

Connect With Others

To help combat feelings of isolation and loneliness, maintain communication with your friends, family, co-workers, and loved ones. When feelings begin to build up or anxieties arise, your chosen support group will know just the things to say to bring you back down to Earth. Or, they can offer a listening ear. At times, that is enough. Carving out time during your week to catch up with your loved ones can help melt away the isolation that remote work can often facilitate. 

Ask For Help

While reaching out to loved ones can help immensely with mental health, that is not always an option for individuals, and that’s okay. Additionally, if an individual is experiencing a severe decline in mental health, like increased rates of depression or anxiety, they should consider professional help. Many organizations have free mental health services, and some workplaces have even increased their resources available to employees since the pandemic. 

Check if my insurance covers rehab

Addiction Center is not affiliated with any insurance.

Finding Resources

While it feels that the world is changing day by day, there is one thing that we can all count on: ourselves. This is not to imply that we have to be okay at any given moment or that we are always in control, it simply means that we have the ability to reach out to others when we need additional help. We have tools to help regulate our mental health, but that is not always enough. If you or a loved one is struggling with mental health, contact a treatment provider today.

The post Maintaining A Happy Brain While Working From Home appeared first on Addiction Center.

Sunday, October 10 was World Mental Health Day. The day was observed by a world in the midst of a mental health crisis, but new research shows there’s hope for the millions suffering around the globe.

The depth of the current crisis has pushed hope to its breaking point: a new report from UNICEF found that no less than 13% of young people between 10 and 19 have been diagnosed with a mental health condition.

It’s no doubt that COVID-19 has had a major impact on mental health, but evidence shows trends began well before the pandemic according to Mental Health America, a nonprofit devoted to wellness, “In 2017-2018, 19% of adults experienced a mental illness, an increase of 1.5 million people over last year’s dataset.” In 2020, 40% of adults reported struggling with addiction or mental health.

A survey by the American Psychological Association revealed some of the things causing Americans stress: uncertainty about the safety of oneself and one’s family, difficulty paying bills, and frustration about the state of the world or one’s personal life topped the list.

There’s a very real harm done by such a prevalent degree of mental illness; suicide has been the second leading cause of death among Americans between 10 and 34. A recent op-ed in Stat News declared that the American Medical Association should, “take decisive action and declare a national mental health emergency.”

What’s more, the US Department of Health reports that mental health conditions are liable to give rise to addiction, while substance abuse can cause symptoms of a mental health disorder; over a quarter of adults with significant mental illness also struggle with addiction. If suicide can be considered among the most extreme and destructive ends of mental illness, then suicide’s relationship with addiction can’t be ignored; almost 25% of American suicide victims are under the influence upon their death.

Anyone who struggles with addiction, mental health, or both shouldn’t wait until things get worse to take action. There’s good news: research shows that some simple changes, many of which can be made without any outside help, can dramatically improve one’s patterns of feeling and thinking. On top of that, outside help is also available. Therapies and treatment modalities that have been proven to work can be powerful tools in anyone’s toolbox.

Check if my insurance covers rehab

Addiction Center is not affiliated with any insurance.

New Research: Simple Changes Improve Mental Health

Some might imagine a future solution for mental health to arrive in the form of a new pill, innovative treatment method, or inner personal realization. It certainly might.

However, new research has shown that small, specific changes around lifestyle choices can drastically alter mental health in ways that might be surprising — especially to one who might see such changes as being elementary.

For example, one study published this year on nutrition found that while, “Poor mental well-being is a major issue for young,” that “The contribution of nutrition is underexplored.” Researchers looked into the measurable impact on eating well, particularly the consumption of more fruits and vegetables, on mental health. Conclusions include that, “Higher combined fruit and vegetable consumption was significantly associated with higher well-being” and that “public health strategies to optimise the mental well-being of children should include promotion of good nutrition.” Adult mental health may similarly benefit from such basic dietary measures; however, the CDC reported in 2017 that barely 1 in 10 adults gets enough fruit and vegetables in their diet.

Eating more healthfully would likely help treat addiction as well; one 2009 article published in Drugs and Alcohol Today found that, “there is a close, exacerbating relationship between problematic substance use and poor nutrition.”

Another simple change that could help with mental health is spending more time in nature: Science Daily reported last Thursday about new research which found that, “outdoor, nature-based activities…lasting for 20 to 90 minutes, sustained for over the course of 8 to 12 weeks, have the most positive outcomes for improving mood and reducing anxiety.” Gardening and exercising were 2 such activities, and each was correlated with mental health gains.

A study of 12,000 US adults, conducted within the last 5 years, found that most spent little time outside and that many viewed the outdoors as being dangerous.

Eating more fruits and vegetables and spending more time outdoors may be 2 very effective means of improving one’s health that too many Americans may be simply unable or willing to attempt. Those that do implement these changes may begin to reap the rewards for their mental health; however, outside assistance may be necessary.

Help Available For Mental Health, Addiction

There’s no shortage of external aid for the individual struggling with mental disorders and/or addiction. A trained and licensed professional can help by providing therapy; 2 forms that may be encountered in rehab, mindfulness therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy, have been proven to have long-lasting and positive impacts on the mood and the mind.

Pharmacological solutions, such as Antidepressants, may also be prescribed in rehab after a diagnostic assessment; symptoms may recur after use of them is stopped, however they may be most effective as a short-term solution.

Furthermore, rehab may allow one to reset self-defeating cycles that stop one from implementing the kinds of changes described in the above section, like eating right and spending time outside, by taking one away from the routine of day-to-day life and providing altitude and perspective with which to examine previously automatic behavioral patterns.

Whatever it is that excites you most about rehab, there’s no reason to delay seeking the help you need. Contact a treatment provider today to learn more, and take a step toward defeating an addiction, managing a mental health condition, and making a better life before it’s too late.

The post A Crisis On World Mental Health Day appeared first on Addiction Center.

On January 29th, 2020 the World Health Organization (WHO) announced the outbreak of a mysterious virus spreading in Wuhan, China. At that time, Coronavirus-related pneumonia had officially infected 59 people. To avoid further spreading, experts suggested travel precautions. Four days after the announcement, the United States restricted global air travel and declared COVID-19 a National Emergency. 

As of today, more than 147,211,802 people worldwide have contracted the virus. However, the number of new outbreaks is winding down thanks to efficient safety practices like social distancing and the role out of multiple vaccines. In response to the lowered rates of new infections, the U.S. and much of the world are loosening their travel restrictions. 

Can I Travel For Rehab?

It is well-documented now that rates of substance abuse have increased during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that 40% of American adults said they were struggling with mental health or substance use, with 13% starting or increasing their substance use during the pandemic. 

These increasing rates have caused many people to seek out necessary treatment at inpatient rehabilitation facilities. Rehabs are essential and have been operating during COVID with increased sanitation practices and social distancing, but that does not remove the uncertainty that some patients feel during this time.

Traveling to rehab is often imperative based on the location of the patient. Finding a rehab that meets ones specific needs is crucial and sometimes that rehab will not always be within driving distance. Others may want to explore luxury rehabs in beautiful destinations, while others may want the opportunity to step away from the area that they used to use at and solely focus on their recovery. Thankfully, traveling can be done safely under CDC guidelines.

Current COVID Regulations For Domestic Travelers

Current COVID regulations for travel vary by state. However, the CDC released new guidance on April 2, 2021.

Fully Vaccinated Domestic Travelers

The new guidelines issued by the CDC state that fully vaccinated travelers with an FDA approved vaccine:

• Do not need to self-quarantine.
• Do not need to test negative before a trip unless required by their destination.
• Should wear a mask over their nose and mouth.
• Are recommended to stay 6 feet from others and avoid crowds.
• Are urged to wash their hands often or use hand sanitizer.
• Must self-monitor for COVID-19 symptoms after travel. 
• If developing COVID related symptoms, must isolate and get tested.
• Should follow all state and local recommendations or requirements.

It is important to note that you do not need to get tested or self-quarantine if you have recovered from COVID-19 in the past 3 months. However, they should still follow all other travel recommendations.

To clarify, fully vaccinated travelers, in general, are people who are 2 weeks into their second dose of an FDA-approved vaccine. Examples of the 2-dose series include vaccines like Pfizer or Moderna. People who do not meet the above requirement are not fully vaccinated. 

Unvaccinated Domestic Travelers

For those who are not vaccinated, different regulations apply when traveling. To protect yourself and others, the CDC recommends:

• To take a viral test 1-3 days before traveling.
• Wearing a mask over your nose and mouth.
• Avoiding crowds. 
• Staying 6 feet which is about 2 arm lengths from anyone who is not traveling with you.
• Washing your hands as much as possible or using hand sanitizer.
• To take a viral test 3-5 days after travel. 
• Once home, self-quarantine for a full 7 days after a trip (even if test results are negative).

For those who choose not to get tested, please stay home. The CDC recommends unvaccinated travelers self-quarantine for 10 days after a trip. They also suggest avoiding people who are at increased risk for severe illness for 14 days.

Check if my insurance covers rehab

Addiction Center is not affiliated with any insurance.

Current COVID Regulations For International Travelers

Due to the spread of new or concerning variants when traveling internationally, people have a different set of guidelines to follow. Even if a person is fully vaccinated when visiting a foreign country, the individual must pay close attention to the COVID-19 situation before leaving.

Fully Vaccinated International Travelers

For those who must travel during the pandemic, below are a few guidelines the CDC recommends for international travelers. Once an individual is fully vaccinated, if they choose to travel, the CDC recommends the following:

• Before traveling, research requirements related to travel, testing, or quarantine.
• Understand and follow all airline and destination standards that may differ from the U.S.’s.
• Check the current COVID-19 situation in your destination.
• Wear a mask over your nose and mouth.
• Avoid crowds and stay at least 6 feet apart from anyone not traveling with you.
• Wash your hands often.
• Carry and use hand sanitizer with 60% alcohol or more.
• When arriving back in the U.S., all air passengers must have a negative COVID-19 test result no more than 3 days old.
• Once in the U.S., individuals should get tested with a viral test 3 to 5 days after arrival .
• Self-monitor for symptoms.
• If travelers feel any symptoms, they should isolate and get tested.

As a reminder, travelers who do not follow their destination’s requirements may be denied entry to their travel destination. These individuals will be required to return to the U.S. 

Unvaccinated International Travelers

People not fully vaccinated are recommended not to travel at this time to reduce their exposure to the virus. However, if a person needs to travel, the CDC does have guidelines she or he may follow like: 

• Before travel, get a viral test 1-3 days before flying out.
• Understand and follow all airline and destination requirements.
• Know that travel, testing, or quarantine guidelines may vary from the U.S. 
• Please recognize that you may be denied entry to any foreign destination due to their COVID-related guidelines.
• Travelers who do not follow the foreign country’s international travel requirements may be required to return to the U.S.
• Before traveling, understand how the destination is handling the pandemic.
• Wear a mask over your nose and mouth when in public.
• Avoid crowds. 
• Stay at a minimum of six feet from those who are not part of your travel party.
• Wash your hands often. 
• Carry and use sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

It is essential for anyone visiting a new destination to stay updated with the CDC’s guidelines. As time passes, more people will be vaccinated, and the rates of COVID-19 will change. In response, the CDC will update their recommendations to reflect the available scientific evidence and conditions. In the meantime, our team recommends everyone continue practicing social distancing and stay aware. 

Traveling During COVID For Rehab

Traveling during the pandemic is possible. If you or a loved one are interested in traveling for rehab, reach out for help. Contact a treatment provider who can help answer your rehab-related questions. Do not wait another day.

The post Current COVID Regulations For Travel appeared first on Addiction Center.

In March 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) announced the onset of a global pandemic. COVID-19 spread throughout the globe, uprooting the daily lives of millions. As the world hunkered down to quarantine, millions of Americans canceled activities and prepared. Some turned to alcohol to cope with the sudden change. 

Right after the announcement of the global pandemic, the sales of alcoholic beverages spiked. In the United States, the overall alcohol market grew by 55%, and online alcohol sales skyrocketed to a startling 243%. Despite bar, club, and restaurant closure, liquor revenue rose from $29 billion in 2019 to $31.2 billion in 2020. 

COVID-19 Alcohol And Addiction 

The effects of COVID-19 have trickled across countless households. Families are experiencing high levels of stress while juggling their children’s school activities, work-from-home responsibilities, and housework. Others are struggling financially, with social isolation and general uncertainties. The high levels of stress have triggered a spike in alcohol demand and addiction rates in the U.S. Stress is associated with an increased risk for alcohol use, alcohol-related problems, and alcohol use disorders (AUD). Some of the most common health manifestations due to COVID-19 include anxiety, poor sleep, and hypochondriac beliefs.

Alcohol abuse hit an all-time-high in 2020. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that more than 13% of Americans used alcohol or drugs to deal with COVID-19 related stressors. Those under lockdown or quarantine increased their heavy alcohol use from 21.0% (in March) to 40.7% (in September). The surge in alcohol use has the scientific and health community highly concerned.

In the U.S., more than 95,000 people die from dangerous alcohol use every year. Alcohol abuse shortens the life of an individual an average of 29 years. Every year a total of 2.8 million years of potential life is lost to alcohol.

Previous Devastations And Alcohol Misuse

With increased alcohol use, sales, and ER visits related to alcohol use, there is no question that COVID-19 has had a devastating impact on the lives of Americans and people around the world. The stress that has been caused by the pandemic is not isolated to this single experience. Other devastating occurrences such as terrorist attacks and recessions cause similar levels of stress, mental health disturbances, and potentially increased alcohol abuse.

A study published in the journal Frontiers in Psychology looked into the Oklahoma City bombing, 9/11, and terrorist events in Israel and England and discovered that there was increased alcohol use up to 2 years after these events. An estimated 7.3% of people exposed to one of these events presented with alcohol misuse. The study also found that those who were exposed to terrorist attacks had higher rates of binge drinking, which increased with how involved they were with the event, such as if they knew someone who lost their life in the attack. Alcohol abuse was even more common in those with PTSD symptoms.

Researchers from the Frontiers study examined drinking patterns and the Great Recession of 2008 and found that there was decreased alcohol consumption during this time. This was likely due to reduced wages, higher debts, and loss of purchasing power. However, during this time the rate of binge drinking increased in certain populations like the unemployed, young people, and men. Economic adversity has been found to be associated with increased rates of alcohol misuse.

Check if my insurance covers rehab

Addiction Center is not affiliated with any insurance.

Finding Treatment For Alcohol Addiction

Drinking is a popular pastime in the U.S., and in 2020, while people quarantined, it became even more common. However, reaching for an alcoholic beverage every time a person is bored/stressed is problematic. Habitual alcohol use can lead to an alcohol use disorder (AUD). More than 15 million people are battling AUD in the U.S. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, young men are at an increased risk of developing an AUD. If the individuals recently lost their primary jobs due to COVID-19, the risk is even higher.  

Developing an AUD can happen to anyone. Alcohol use disorders are the most common addictions in America. Unfortunately, SARS-CoV-2 contributed to the spike in rates among Americans, as seen in alcohol sales for 2020. Fortunately, there are several addiction treatment centers ready to help anyone battling a substance use disorder. Thousands of people are prioritizing their health and seeking treatment. Contact a treatment provider and discover the many options you or a loved one have. Begin to take back control of your life by contacting a treatment provider today.   

The post Alcohol Sales Spike In 2020 Due To COVID-19 appeared first on Addiction Center.

As of September 2020, there have been a reported 6.38 million cases of COVID-19 in the United States. Everyone has been impacted by the pandemic in some way, but research has found that those with substance use disorders (SUD) have been hit particularly hard. People with a SUD are at an increased risk for contracting pulmonary infections, because of the effect drugs and alcohol have on the body like compromised immunity, as well as issues like housing instability and inadequate access to health care. Due to a plethora of factors, some individuals are not traveling to rehab during COVID-19, putting themselves at a far greater risk in the long run.

Contracting the virus is not the only danger during this time. A new wave of psychosocial stressors resulting from social isolation and lockdowns has developed. The National Center for Biotechnology Information lists some of these stressors as, “prolonged home confinement, depression and panic due to unknown nature of the disease, fear of contracting infection, vulnerability, work from home, anxiety regarding flow of income, fear of losing jobs.” Facing these struggles may push some to turn towards addictive substances as a relief, creating a new population of people with SUD and well as worsening SUD in those who already have one.

The number of drug overdoses has risen by 18% during the pandemic, according to National Public Radio (NPR). The Overdose Detection Mapping Application Program surveyed the number of fatal overdoses and found that 60% of the participating counties had an increased number of drug overdoses, and many had a surge in the number of people who needed professional help. At the start of the pandemic, some rehabilitation facilities were forced to shut down, with others operating at a decreased capacity. Fear of the virus, as well as financial difficulties have stopped people from seeking help, even though research has shown that for many, it is more likely that they will die from a SUD than from COVID-19.

The Benefits Of Inpatient Rehab

For some, a combination of outpatient treatment and telehealth is a viable option to receive help during the pandemic. However, for those with serious substance use disorders, local outpatient treatment will likely be inadequate. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) stated that, “Comprehensive long-term residential treatment programs, where COVID related precautions can be implemented (social distancing, isolating, testing, etc.) remain a viable treatment option when clinically indicated.” The American Society of Addiction Medicine has laid out guidelines to make inpatient rehabilitation safe, including increased sanitation processes, screening for symptoms, isolating those who exhibit symptoms, and limiting visitors. Inpatient rehabs are implementing safety measures, but the real concern for some is the consideration of traveling to rehab during COVID-19.

One of the benefits of inpatient rehab is that it takes the addict away from their day to day life that includes access to their addiction, like local dealers, their regular bars, or people that they would use drugs or alcohol with. Getting away from it all can offer people the opportunity to solely focus on their recovery with no distractions. However, the fear of traveling to rehab during COVID-19 may cause some to hesitate, as the busyness of airports and the confinement of airplanes seem like a place where it would be easy to contract the virus.

Safely Traveling To Rehab During COVID-19

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has laid out proactive and protective measures to decrease the spread of COVID-19 for those traveling via plane. Check points have been placed throughout airports to remind people to social distance, and acrylic barriers have been placed to separate passengers from TSA officers. Passengers are required to wear a face covering at all times, and TSA agents are required to wear both gloves and a face covering. Sanitation practices have been implemented, and currently there is a temporary exemption that allows passengers to bring up to a 12-ounce container of liquid hand sanitizer. Touchless technology that screens passengers and their luggage without having to touch anything is being used, such as Computed Tomography (CT) and Enhanced Advanced Imaging Technology (eAIT). The number of people traveling overall has drastically decreased, as shown by the TSA checkpoint travel numbers for 2020 and 2019 list. For example, on September 6, 2019, the number of passengers was 2,370,003. On September 6, 2020, it was 689,630.

Depending on the preference of the individual, it may not be necessary to travel by plane to attend rehab if they are staying within the continent. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released guidelines on how to protect oneself from COVID-19 when using transportation such as personal vehicles, public transit like trains and buses, rideshares, paratransit programs, bikes, scooters, and other micro-mobility devices. Wearing a mask, washing hands, and using hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol are all recommended steps. Avoiding touching unnecessary surfaces, practicing social distancing, improving ventilation by opening windows, and disinfecting surfaces with alcohol wipes are all tools to be implemented in any kind of ground travel.

Finding The Right Inpatient Rehab

Finding the right inpatient rehabilitation facility is crucial to making sure the needs of each individual are met. If someone is limiting themselves to options only available within their city limits, they are doing themselves a disservice. Certain centers offer different treatment options and approaches. A person may desire a holistic approach and enjoy therapies like yoga, meditation, or animal assisted therapies. They may desire a 12-step approach that is focused on community, or a luxury treatment center that offers upscale amenities. Certain medications may also be key during detox and recovery. Doing research on treatment options is extremely important to make sure the right facility is selected.

Traveling to rehab during COVID-19 can be done safely if precautionary measures are taken, and proper screening upon arrival to the facility results in a safe experience so treatment can begin. Waiting any longer to seek treatment may be dangerous for those with a serious addiction, so excuses should not be made to put off arranging treatment.

For more information on addiction treatment, contact a treatment provider today.

The post Traveling To Rehab During COVID-19 appeared first on Addiction Center.

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact America, there is hardly any aspect of daily life that it does not affect. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 160,000 Americans have died from COVID-19 as of August 2020. Those who have lost their lives directly from the virus are not the only ones who have suffered. Drug use and drug overdose deaths are suspected to be increasing for a number of factors influenced by the wreckage COVID-19 has caused. Kipu Health reported that the number of opioid overdoses in large cities has risen by 54% in 16 states. The link between opioid addiction and COVID-19 is a serious issue that individuals, families, and medical and treatment professionals are fighting to overcome.

The situation of opioid addiction and COVID-19 is continuing to unfold, but recent study findings are causing major concern for experts. Millennium Health, a national laboratory service, analyzed 500,000 urine drug tests and found that there was an increase of 32% for nonprescribed fentanyl and 20% for methamphetamine from March through May. The University of Baltimore found that suspected drug overdoses rose 18%, and even alcohol sales have increased by more than 25%. Restrictions on air travel and closed borders have impacted drug trafficking, causing some dealer’s supplies to be diminished. This may lead someone struggling with a substance use disorder to turn to a new, unfamiliar dealer who may provide them with drugs that are more likely to lead to an overdose. For example, the issue of fentanyl being mixed in with heroin has been the culprit for many overdose deaths, as fentanyl is 50 times more potent than heroin. If someone takes their normal dose of heroin without knowing there is fentanyl in it, it is likely they will overdose.

Drug trafficking disrupted by COVID-19 is a long-term concern, as well as its impact on present times. It is believed that the pandemic is causing dealers to stockpile drugs, leading to a decrease in prices and increased availability when restrictions are lifted. Access to high-purity drugs could lead to an increase in overdoses. Some states across America have renewed lockdowns, causing dealers to mix their supply with deadly substances. Not only do factors of drug purity and availability perpetrate the opioid crisis, the emotional and financial consequences of COVID-19 are wreaking havoc on individuals with a substance use disorder.

Anxiety, Opioid Addiction, And COVID-19

The emotional implications as a result of COVID-19 have been devastating. Social distancing has caused loneliness and isolation, lack of work opportunity has caused homelessness and fears about the future, and in result has created anxiety over many factors, as well as relapses in those in recovery. In some cases, individuals have been forced out of treatment or had to enter into a modified treatment program. Certain facilities that have patients who tested positive for COVID-19 have had to isolate patients and operate at a decreased capacity. In a time where social connection is so crucial, having to be isolated while in recovery can derail a person’s recovery altogether.

Anxiety over COVID-19 may be stopping some people from seeking treatment for an addiction when they truly need it. However, in many cases, people are more likely to die from their addiction than COVID-19, especially with a dangerous addiction to opioids. The U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration and U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) have modified guidelines on providing buprenorphine and methadone to those who need it, as well as other increased areas of flexibility. However, there is nothing treatment professionals can do for someone who does not seek out help.

Statistics From Front-Line Professionals

Recent statistics from front-line professionals paint a deeply concerning picture regarding opioid addiction and COVID-19. 96% of medical and treatment professionals reported that patients with an opioid use disorder have been disproportionately affected by COVID-19. 92% of front-line professionals stated that opioid use has increased “somewhat” to “a lot.” 94% of front-line professionals report that social isolation has led to an increase of 94% in relapses. Those with an opioid use disorder are not the only ones negatively affected. 86% of front-line professionals reported that COVID-19 has diminished their ability to do their jobs.

Healthcare workers are at an increased risk for contracting COVID-19, with Massachusetts General Hospital reporting that, “frontline health care workers had a nearly 12-times higher risk of testing positive for COVID-19.” Other healthcare workers are being laid off or furloughed due to the low number of elective care cases, according to Kipu Health. The link between opioid addiction and COVID-19 doesn’t only affect 1 group of people; it’s devastating impact has sent tendrils of destruction throughout countless parts of communities across the country. Individuals, communities, and treatment professionals must work together to educate others on this daunting reality. For those fighting an addiction, seeking treatment may be essential to their survival. For more information on treatment options, contact a treatment provider today.

The post Recent Statistics Show Opioid Addiction And COVID-19 Dangers appeared first on Addiction Center.