As we navigate the unknown of COVID-19 we hear a lot of stories about weight gain, increased consumption of alcohol, lack of motivation, sleep disturbances, and anxiety. As the days get longer, daylight keeps us awake later and our sleep cycles are disrupted. Add to that, many parents are now sharing their bed with 1-2 extra “bodies”, yes, their kids! So, what’s the deal with this? Studies have shown that more and more people are experiencing anxiety and using telehealth to seek medications for anxiety, insomnia, and depression. In fact, statistics show that during the week of March 15th, more than three quarters (78%) of antidepressants, antianxiety, and anti-insomnia prescriptions filled were for NEW prescriptions.

Bottom line, this is a difficult time, everyone experiences stress differently and as the saying goes, this is a “NO JUDGEMENT ZONE”! Take care of yourself and your family. If you feel the need for support, either counseling or medications, reach out to your healthcare provider and talk about it. If you notice your young children are more anxious, have an increase in disruptive behaviors, waking during the night, bed wetting, etc. it might be a good time to contact their pediatrician.

Remember we are all in this together for however long it takes. Be good to yourself, be patient with your children (and your significant other) and above all, never look down, always look up! Be safe, stay well and stay tuned!

https://www.express-scripts.com/corporate/americas-state-of-mind-report?mod=article_inline