The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the lives of individuals all around the world over the past year. For those living with mental health and substance use disorders, the pandemic and resulting economic recession resulted new barriers to overcome. Stress contributed to an increase in binge drinking, difficulty sleeping or eating, and worsening of chronic illnesses. In southeast Minnesota, the implications of COVID-19 have affected the workforce, access to healthcare, and income directly.

Employment Cutbacks and Layoffs

In the first three months of Coronavirus, over 53,500 SE Minnesotans filed for unemployment benefits. Many local businesses faced operating restrictions that resulted in thousands of layoffs and permanent shutdowns. Job loss is linked to increased depression, anxiety, distress, and low self-esteem and may lead to higher rates of substance use disorder and suicide. “Losing a job and being unemployed for a long period of time is a psychological trauma and a financial trauma, and the two are closely intertwined,” says Carl Van Horn, PhD, a professor of public policy and an expert on workforce and unemployment policy at Rutgers University. Mental health support can be lifesaving, he says. While psychologists can’t solve the economic problem, “they can certainly help people cope and manage it.”

Unexpected Financial Stress

The result of these sweeping layoffs and furloughs have put a massive financial strain on thousands of people in the area. The pressure to figure out how to provide for one’s family during the past year has been an almost unimaginable task for some. Government assistance can only help in the short term and many people have turned to substances in order to cope. According to research published in the Journal of the American Medical Association Network Open, women have shown a 41% increase in binge drinking over the past year.

Virtual Support Groups and Services

Prior to COVID-19, less than 10 percent of the U.S. population used telehealth for a clinical encounter, and only 18 percent of physicians provided such services. While virtual mental health services have been shown to be as effective as face-to-face care, there are some barriers with certain populations. Those suffering from severe mental illness or homelessness often do not have access to the technology needed to receive virtual care. State-wide shutdowns prevented social workers from accessing those most vulnerable, including at-risk children and older adults.

Moving Forward

If you feel overwhelmed, out of control, or are struggling with increased substance use, you are not alone. Our clinicians provide individual therapeutic approaches that focus on the whole person, including physical, emotional, mental, social, spiritual and environmental influences. We understand how overwhelming it can be to take that first step towards seeking help. Our team of caring, compassionate professionals are here to guide you along your path of healing and recovery.