October is national depression and mental health screening month.  This year in particular, we take a closer look at depression and its relation to the global pandemic.

Depression is a highly treatable condition with many different options available.

A number of different factors can often come into play with depression that can include a mix of environmental, genetic, psychological, and biological /biochemical components.

Not everyone experiences depression in the same way, but it can affect anyone at any time. Noticeable symptoms may include feelings of: hopelessness, guilt, pessimism, worthlessness and more.

Over the past two years, depression has been on the rise.

In fact, in the US, depression rates have more than tripled during the pandemic. The isolation and lack of social interactions has had a severe toll on the public’s overall mental health.

• Researchers polled participants at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic and again a year later to assess depression symptoms.
• After 1 year into the pandemic, nearly one-third of participants expressed having symptoms of depression.
• The study found that people with certain factors, such as having a lower income, experienced a higher rate of depression symptoms.

It is well documented that the coronavirus pandemic has taken a serious toll on emotional well-being. Rates of depression and anxiety in June were three to four times higher than at the corresponding point in 2019, according to the CDC.

What can we do?

Know the signs of depression. Get help.  Know that it is very common to feel depressed.  You are not alone.

Reach out to support family and friends as much as possible, while also paying attention to self-care.

If you are in crisis or are experiencing difficult or suicidal thoughts, call the National Suicide Hotline at 1-800-273 TALK (8255).

The Door SwitchTM wants to continue the fight for more awareness and provide additional resources to dispel the myths about mental health issues and solutions for safety issues. We also continue to strive to provide a product that keeps the hospital environment safe. We continue to be committed to better practices and procedures in the mental health community. For information concerning our safety product, please click here.

Sincerely,

The Door SwitchTM