A Neuropsychiatrist On Why The Pandemic Severely Hurts Millennial Mental Health

Feeling more stressed and depressed? You're not alone. A Census Bureau poll1 found that one-third of Americans are experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Younger Americans are experiencing record rates of unemployment and a giant question mark when it comes to career prospects. Social distancing has made it nearly impossible to start a new relationship, and moving back in with Mom and Dad certainly isn't helping. It's forcing some millennials into an existential quandary wrapped up with anxiety and depression.

Making things worse, an increasing number of younger Americans are turning to drugs and alcohol as a coping mechanism, according to the CDC's Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report2. The survey found that nearly one in four Americans ages 18 to 24 and one in five of those ages 25 to 44 had begun or increased substance abuse during the pandemic. Brain SPECT imaging studies performed at Amen Clinics show that drugs and alcohol may provide short-term relief from distressing emotions, but they damage the brain in ways that exacerbate mental health issues.

Although the statistics paint a distressing picture, there are some strategies that might help. During this pandemic, I believe mental hygiene is as important as washing your hands. You need to disinfect your thoughts and redirect your attention away from all the negativity. Doing something as simple as starting your day saying "Today is going to be a great day" can direct your brain to look for reasons it will be great and can set you up for a brighter day. This is a process I refer to as "rewiring your negativity bias."

It's also beneficial to prioritize practices that have a positive impact on brain health, like hydration, sleep, exercise, and nutritious eating.