Know the warning signs of mental trouble

By Patricia Nugent

Although there might be light at the end of the pandemic tunnel, most of us still have to weather a dark winter first.

“In addition to long-term changes to our economy, travel and gatherings, the pandemic has produced long-term effects on the mental health of Americans,” says Lisa M. Borchert, M.A. Ed., LPCC, who founded Avenues of Counseling and Mediation, a private practice of 40 clinicians. “Unfortunately, self-isolating has been found to exacerbate psychological issues across all ages and genders, with adolescents particularly at risk.”

She reports the CDC released results of a survey last summer that found 25 percent of people showed symptoms of anxiety and 24 percent had symptoms of depression—a threefold and fourfold increase, respectively, over 2019.

“Being able to spot warning signs of mental trouble, acknowledging and expressing distress, focusing on even the small things you can control, and finding ways to connect with others will be imperative during the next few months,” she adds. “Key signs of declining mental health include changes in appetite or sleep patterns that last more than a week. If you notice significant mood changes, increased trouble concentrating or more reliance on medications or alcohol to cope, these are also red flags.”

Avenues of Counseling and Mediation has two locations: 843 N. Cleveland Massillon Road, Ghent Square in Fairlawn, and 230 S. Court Street in Medina. In addition to in-office visits, teletherapy sessions are available and are covered by insurances and Employee Assistance Programs. Call 330-723-7977 or visit AvenuesofCounseling.com for more information or to make an appointment.

Interested in attending Avenues’ “Parenting During a Pandemic” webinar series? Visit AvenuesOfCounseling.com/parenting-webinar for more details and discount information.