As the COVID-19 pandemic stretches on and the U.S. continues to struggle through social and political upheaval, many Americans are facing levels of stress unlike anything they've experienced before. As a result, a number of experts are warning of a potential mental health crisis in the coming months and years.
According to psychologist Dr. Helena Boschi, an expert on applied neuroscience in the workplace, when our brain reacts to uncertainty or threats, "it immediately activates chemicals that strengthen our system to fight or to run." But while this reaction evolved to address threats such as saber toothed tigers, it doesn't always work well for modern life.
"Currently, the biggest threat isn't necessarily the pandemic itself," she explains, "but the uncertainty we're all facing and simply not knowing what the future holds." If we don't properly manage our daily stress and monitor our well-being, it can result in chronic stress, which can affect our emotions, memory, decision making and even physical health.
What are the warning signs of poor mental health? What would a mental health crisis look like? And how does stress impact our daily lives at home and at work?
Listen to Dr. Boschi and Editor-in-chief Paul Wilson discuss the mental health challenges currently facing individuals, families and businesses navigating their way through these stressful times.
Click here to listen to other Supporting Mental Health During Challenging Times Podcasts.
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