Overview:

 The pandemic has wreaked havoc on the mental health of our nation.  Symptoms of anxiety disorder and depressive disorder in the United States increased dramatically between April – June 2020. This increase in anxiety and depression can be felt by everyone.  This increase in anxiety and depression can have a rippling effect on everyone.

Researchers found parents of teens said their child has shown signs of a new or worsening mental health condition since the start of the pandemic. (University of Michigan, news release, March 15, 2021) As a result, the number of people looking for help with anxiety and depression has skyrocketed.  Young people are especially struggling most with their mental health. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, youth ages 11-17 have been more likely than any other age group to score for moderate to severe symptoms of anxiety and depression. (https://www.mhanational.org/issues/state-mental-health-america)

As a result of this increased mental health crisis, we have also seen considerable rises in substance use and the need for treatment. The reason for this is not all that surprising; after all, Americans have few coping and resilience-building strategies available to them during a pandemic. As a nation, we had never been more alone.

Now, with stay-at-home orders being lifted and more Americans returning to school or work, the need to discuss the impact COVID-19 has had on mental health has never been more important.

Join Recovery Centers of America, leaders in expert addiction treatment, for a panel discussion to explore our overall mental health and red flags to look for. Hear from experts on ways to manage your own experiences as well as talk to your children about theirs and the risks associated with increased substance use. Together, we can begin healing as a nation.