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Spencer Dalley
Introduction
Most everyone across the globe has been negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic in some way, but what many people might have overlooked about the pandemic is its impact on mental health. It can be concluded that depression and suicide rates have increased since the start of the pandemic due to factors like self-isolation, job loss and fear of contracting the COVID-19 virus.
Connection to STS Theory
The increased rates of depression and suicide due to the COVID-19 pandemic are closely related to the Social Constructivism Theory, which describes the shared meanings formed among populations due to inter-personal experiences and interactions that lead to common norms. These norms are constantly changing with society, and in this case, the COVID-19 pandemic has narrowed the world’s focus to containing the virus and protecting those who are vulnerable and sick. This induces isolation protocols, layoffs, and anxiety resulting in a greater number of mental health issues and a lack of attention to the people with these issues. As the pandemic heightens, the dangers of suicide and depression are also at their peak, and increasing awareness is the first step to solving the problem.
The Increase of Depression Rates & Feelings of Anxiety
It’s important to recognize how self-isolation due to COVID-19 has affected depression rates. Sustained self-isolation typically takes a serious toll on wellbeing after some time. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic many people have had to self-isolate in efforts to reduce the spread of the virus. Self-isolation and feelings of loneliness, sadness and depression often go hand in hand. To demonstrate this we can look at the data from KFF.org as it relates to people experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depression (Koma, et al., 2020). In May 2020 it was reported that 34.5% of adults in the U.S. experienced symptoms of anxiety and depression (Panchal, 2021). That number increased to 40.1% of people in the month of July and remained constant at slightly above 40% all the way into January 2021 (Panchal, 2021). From what the data shows we can conclude that self-isolation due to COVID-19 has increased the number of peoples reporting that they’re experiencing symptoms of depression. This is very concerning in consideration of how much more we know about chronic depression now and how detrimental it often is to overall mental and physical wellbeing.
Voices from Clemson Undergraduate Students
To add to the evidence shown I can testify as to how COVID-19 has affected me personally. When we were under lockdown during April I was essentially stuck inside my house for around two months. Going to the gym and going out to eat with my family were two activities I really enjoyed doing when home from college. Those freedoms were routinely important in keeping me sane and happy. after most all non-essential businesses closed due to the pandemic I had no access to the gym or to places to places I usually socialize. I