Mental health in the district: How Corona has shaped us!

Mental health in the district: How Corona has shaped us!

Mental health in the Günzburg district is a topic that is currently affecting many people. Professor Matthias W. Riepe sees general uncertainty among the population after the challenging Corona years. This uncertainty has many faces and is strongly linked to the social restrictions during the pandemic. Older people in particular are increasingly reporting depressive symptoms that have become more pronounced after losing their usual social contacts. Important social activities, such as assembly in church cafés or visits to relatives, were often missed and contributed to this unfortunate situation. The pandemic was therefore not only a health problem, but also a profound social problem.

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health is felt globally, as numerous studies show. Fear of the virus and containment measures, including social distancing, were major risk factors for the development of mental disorders. According to an article from the National Medical Library The psychological stress caused by isolation and quarantine has increased significantly. During the pandemic, depression and anxiety disorders were three times more common than before.

The needs of the elderly

As Professor Riepe notes, older citizens are particularly affected. They often feel lonely and overwhelmed by the new reality. The political and social situation, which has changed over the past few years, is causing additional stress and insomnia. It is therefore recommended to address these topics in an open and fear-free environment in order to counteract the stigmatizing suffering of silence.

A sign of hope comes from the field of mental health. The need for low-threshold assistance offers has increased. In order to do justice to these, initiatives to improve access to psychotherapeutic services should be promoted. There is a significant need for online psychotherapy and other social projects that support people to overcome their mental health challenges.

Especially during this time, it is important that people learn to control their emotions and name their fears. Various coping strategies can help, such as regular physical activity and maintaining social contacts via virtual media. These approaches have proven useful in mitigating the negative effects of isolation.

Important steps for the future

Policy decisions should aim to strengthen social cohesion and improve access to health services. It is also essential for younger generations to talk about their own mental health. This openness could help prevent long-term problems and create a better understanding of individual needs.

The discussion about mental health will become increasingly important in Günzburg and beyond. Society is called upon to deal with this issue sensitively and to take the concerns of those affected seriously. The time is ripe to raise awareness of mental illness. A first step to this is understanding that it is okay to talk about psychological distress and seek help.