Catch 2020: A Review of the Mental Health Impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic

Something I hear incredibly often in my work as a psychologist is how the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic continues to linger in the years after the initial onset. My clients will reference how the pandemic impacted their health, their financial circumstances, their marriages, where they live, how they will and will not work, boundaries they have put in place, and their general beliefs about life, others, and the world in general.

Since 2020:

• Inflation increased as much as 9.1% in 2022, outpacing wage growth by 2.4%.

• Healthcare costs increased by 10.4% in 2021 when medical centers reopened to the general population.

• Remote work has increased by 58%.

• Prices of the goods we use has increased 20%.

• 50% of Americans report being in a worse financial situation.

• Anxiety and depression rates have increased by 25% globally.

• Reports of suicidal thoughts increased by approximately 5%.

• New home prices increased 18%.

• The number of streaming subscriptions (Netflix, Hulu, etc.) increased 26% and surpassed 1 billion during the pandemic.

Four years after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the world continues to grapple with its long-term impacts. The pandemic served as a powerful collective trauma, and this shared experience of loss, fear, and uncertainty has contributed to a marked increase in anxiety, depression, and stress-related disorders. The psychological echo of the pandemic lingers, as we try to heal from the scars left by prolonged periods of isolation, grief from the loss of loved ones, changing political, economic, and occupational landscapes, and the ongoing anxiety about health and safety in a post-pandemic reality.

The financial and work-related impacts of the pandemic have also been profound and have further complicated the mental health landscape. Numerous businesses closed and many people faced job losses or significant changes in their work environments, transitioning to remote or hybrid models. This upheaval has not only strained financial stability but also brought about significant shifts in work-life balance, contributing to burnout and stress. The uncertainty about job security and the rapid adaptation to new working norms have placed additional pressure on individuals, testing their resilience and coping mechanisms.

The COVID-19 pandemic has also profoundly impacted relationships and families, reshaping dynamics and introducing both challenges and opportunities for closer bonds. The extended periods of lockdown and social distancing forced families to spend unprecedented amounts of time together, which, while fostering deeper connections and a renewed appreciation for shared moments, also heightened tensions and exposed existing fractures in relationships. The blurring boundaries between work and home life strained many, as households had to navigate the complexities of remote work, online schooling, and daily living without clear separations. For some couples and families, the intense, shared experience strengthened communication and emotional intimacy. However, for others, it exacerbated conflicts and highlighted incompatible values or coping styles, sometimes leading to separations or intensified relational issues. Additionally, the inability to physically connect with extended family and friends disrupted traditional support networks, prompting a shift towards virtual interactions to maintain these vital connections. Overall, the pandemic tested the resilience and adaptability of relationships and family structures, leaving a lasting impact on how individuals relate within their personalcircles.

The COVID-19 pandemic, despite its challenges, has catalyzed several positive changes in life and mental health. For many, the enforced slowdown of daily life provided an unexpected opportunity to reflect, reprioritize, and reconnect with themselves and their families. People have embraced a more flexible work environment, with remote and hybrid models enhancing work-life balance, reducing commute times, and allowing for a more personalized approach to productivity. This shift has highlighted the importance of mental well-being in the workplace and spurred many organizations to place a greater emphasis on employee support programs and mental health resources. Moreover, the pandemic has significantly raised public awareness and reduced the stigma associated with mental health, encouraging more people to seek help and fostering a culture of openness and support around mental health issues. These shifts represent a silver lining, a “Catch 2020,” potentially leading to more sustainable lifestyles and a greater emphasis on mental health and well-being in the post-pandemic world.

As we continue to navigate the post-pandemic world, the long-term effects on mental health are becoming more apparent. It is crucial for mental health services to adapt and respond to the evolving needs of the population. Increased access to mental health resources, along with community-based support systems, can play a pivotal role in addressing the widespread psychological impact. Promoting resilience-building within communities and workplaces can also help individuals adapt more effectively to the ongoing changes. The journey toward recovery may be gradual, but with sustained effort and understanding, there is hope for healing the collective trauma and fostering a stronger, more supportive society.

If you or your loved ones are struggling with adjusting to the post-pandemic world, reach out for help!