How Does the Global Crisis Impact Mental Health?
The COVID-19 pandemic, beginning in late 2019, represents one of the most significant global crises of the last decade. It brought widespread illness, death, and disruptions to social and economic systems across the world. This unprecedented crisis affected billions, leading to profound psychological impacts as individuals grappled with isolation, grief, financial insecurity, and fear of infection.
The Psychological Impact on Communities
The emotional toll of the pandemic was widespread. A 2022 study highlights that anxiety, depression, and psychological distress were common reactions to the uncertainty surrounding the virus (Kaubisch et al., 2022). Many people experienced heightened anxiety, particularly those in high-risk groups or healthcare workers on the front lines. The grief from losing loved ones without the chance to say goodbye or mourn properly compounded these feelings. Furthermore, global lockdowns and social distancing measures increased feelings of isolation and hopelessness. By March 2020, over 100 countries had imposed some form of lockdown, affecting the mental and physical health of billions of individuals (BBC News, 2020).
Applying the Trauma Crisis Model
The psychological responses during the pandemic align with the trauma crisis model commonly used. Hypervigilance emerged as many became overly focused on hygiene, social distancing, and symptoms, showing elevated levels of stress and fear (WHO, 2022). Avoidance behaviors also became common as individuals withdrew from public spaces, even after restrictions eased. Some individuals experienced emotional numbness, feeling overwhelmed by the relentless barrage of negative news and the increasing death tolls. However, resilience also surfaced during this time. A notable example was the growing awareness of mental health. Many individuals sought professional help, breaking the stigma around therapy, and this shift toward mental health awareness has likely contributed to the rise of telehealth services, making therapy more accessible.
Supporting Clients with Lasting Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic
As a clinician working with individuals still feeling the psychological impact of the COVID-19 crisis, I would first assess the intensity and duration of their emotions. While anxiety and sadness are common after such a major event, prolonged or intense feelings that disrupt daily life—such as difficulties sleeping, focusing, maintaining relationships, or performing at work—could signal conditions like PTSD, anxiety, or depression. These emotions, no matter their severity, deserve validation and understanding. It would also be important to consider the client’s cultural background, as different communities process trauma in distinct ways. What may be seen as distress in one culture could be an appropriate response in another. Creating a culturally sensitive approach to their care would be essential in helping them move toward healing.
References:
BBC News. (2020). COVID-19: How the world is coping with the coronavirus pandemic. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-52103747
Kaubisch, L. T., Reck, C., von Tettenborn, A., & Woll, C. F. J. (2022). The COVID-19 pandemic as a traumatic event and the associated psychological impact on families. Journal of Affective Disorders, 319, 27–39. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jad.2022.08.109
World Health Organization. (2022). The impact of COVID-19 on mental health cannot be made light of. https://www.who.int/news-room/feature-stories/detail/the-impact-of-covid-19-on-mental-health-cannot-be-made-light-ofht-of
