NASHVILLE, Tenn. (CLARKSVILLENOW) – Sleep issues, depression and anxiety are just some of the things mental health professionals have been seeing patients exhibit during the COVID-19 pandemic.

What about you?

Dr. Abhi Saxena, a psychiatrist at Vanderbilt Psychiatric Hospital, said it’s not uncommon to see many people display some level of anxiety during this unprecedented pandemic that comes with isolation, quarantine and a change to everyone’s norm.

“Everybody’s situation is different, but we are social beings,” Dr. Saxena said. “We need social interaction and it can be stressful when normalcy is taken away. There will be a psychological toll on our society as things change.”

Many of the things people used as coping mechanism such as going to the gym are not possible and some have turned to more alcohol, food, and substance consumption as a result.

Dr. Saxena said while it’s normal to feel a little more stressed out, it’s imperative to address the stress and counteract it with healthy alternatives.

Saxena offered the following to get on track and combat stress and anxiety:

  • Have a good routine, that’s structured whether you are working from home or taking care of children.
  • Eat healthy building your immune system. Don’t binge on junk food.
  • Get sunlight and fresh air
  • Move more and workout
  • Stay in contact with family and friends via technology
  • Avoid negativity

While staying informed about the COVID-19 pandemic, limiting how much information you take in is important.

“You want to stay informed, but we don’t need to know updates every 15 minutes,” Saxena said. “Set a limit and pick a time of day to get updates. There’s no need for breaking news moment by moment.”

Overall as a society, Saxena said while stressful, much good has come during this time of pandemic.

“We are doing well overall. It’s unprecedented and something we’ve never seen in our lifetime, but people are helping one another, stepping up, helping family, friends and even strangers … If you see anyone struggling reach out and give them a call.”

Dr. Saxena reminds everyone that if they need help working through depression, anxiety, or any mental health issue, help is available.

“Behavioral health is offering telehealth,” he said. “Help is out there, and we will all get through this.”

For a mental health directory in Montgomery County click here.