Health experts say mental health will be a priority in 2021

47 ABC – As we start the new year and vaccinations continue to roll out. Health professionals are warning that mental health needs to be a priority in 2021.

Dr. Kathy Seifert, a renowned expert in psychology, says that compared to a year ago people’s mental health rates are up. Those who were not struggling with mental health may now be because of the pandemic. While those who were already may have more severe cases.

“So people are really stressed and if you tend to be anxious or depressed it may make it worse for you and getting out and talking to someone to make you feel better is really a good idea,” Dr. Seifert said.

Those we spoke to say overall, they’ve noticed a change in both family and friends.

“I would say they’re a little bit more down than they were a year ago,” Charlrae Brown said. “Everybody’s afraid of going out there and somehow catching ‘it’ so you always want to be very careful. So I think there is a little bit of anxiety out there.”

“I definitely feel like the mental health issues aren’t going to go away if not probably rise,” Vicente Hernandez said.

That’s why experts say it’s important for people to reach out to loved ones and friends if they are struggling. But also just to check-in.

“Tell somebody that you’re feeling anxious and get ideas on how to make it better,” Dr. Seifert said.

Looking forward, Dr. Seifert believes that as more people get vaccinated and we return to a sense of normalcy that the structure will help curb the rising mental health rates.

“It’s going to be, I’m hoping, a supportive environment for people to move back into,” Dr. Seifert said.

Dr. Seifert says for those struggling to cope with their mental health,  there are some things you can do. She recommends doing deep breathing exercises to help reduce stress levels. As well as keeping a journal where you write down what you’re thankful for each day.