For the first time in over a century, the world is experiencing a global pandemic of enormous scale. People everywhere are falling ill, losing their jobs and losing loved ones, all as a result of the coronavirus. In addition, stay-at-home orders and quarantine guidelines imposed across the globe are contributing to increased loneliness, feelings of isolation and a spike in depression cases. To combat the alarming increase in depression cases nationwide, many medical practitioners are turning to Ketamine for depression.

For many people, the isolation, economic uncertainty and inundation of bad news presented by the pandemic is negatively impacting their mood and raising the number of cases of depression. Suffering from depression can feel like a bleak and hopeless battle, as the constant sadness can often be inescapable. Some common causes of depression during this time include:

• Living in isolation – Social distancing and limited personal interaction can exacerbate feelings of loneliness.
• Troubled relationships – Occupying space with someone whom you have trouble getting along with can worsen feelings of depression and inadequacy.
• Anxiety – Relentless worrying and unaddressed anxious tendencies can contribute to a more depressed state overall.

How to cope with the emotional fallout of the coronavirus:

Until there is a vaccine available to help ease the rate of transmission, it is vital that we understand and address the emotional side-effects associated with the virus. While there is no easy fix for depression, it can be managed through a number of treatment options with the help of a medical provider. A few ways to counteract the malaise from the pandemic are:

• Keep yourself occupied – Focus your mind and attention on something constructive. Rather than sitting with ruminating thoughts, consider taking on a new hobby, learning a new skill, practicing a foreign language, etc., anything to help pass the time and halt intrusive negative thoughts.
• Limit news consumption – Constantly consuming information can be physically and mentally depleting, especially when most of it is negative. Limiting the amount of news you are exposed to may help lower feelings of unrest and unease.
• Find a routine – Developing a consistent routine in your daily pattern of activity can help you constructively use your time during quarantine. Reserving dedicated time for things such as exercise and meal preparation can help build consistency in your day-to-day and reduce depressive symptoms.

In addition to the above, remaining in contact with friends and loved ones can also help alleviate negative emotions resulting from the pandemic. Today’s technology makes it easier than ever to communicate with people near and far. Don’t hesitate to communicate your feelings with someone you trust. Letting someone you care for know what you’re going through can ease feelings of loneliness, isolation and depression.