Counseling

The COVID-19 pandemic and its aftermath have given rise to the need for counseling Schaumburg, IL residents can rely on. Many teens and adults nationwide have reason to struggle with their mental health more than ever before. While the pandemic may have exacerbated symptoms for people with existing mental health symptoms, others who have never suffered from depression or anxiety may now require therapeutic services in a post-pandemic world.

According to a study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in 2020, 40% of adults reported experiencing challenges with their mental health or substance misuse. These numbers are likely vastly underreported. In Illinois, a recent study has shown a drastic spike in teen visits to emergency rooms for suicidal ideation. The LOTUS WELLNESS CENTER can share that the pandemic has impacted teen and adult mental health, and seeking support and treatment through counseling can prove invaluable for managing mental health disorders in a post-pandemic world.

An Increase in Mental Health Related Emergency Room Visits

In Illinois, emergency room visits associated with suicidal ideation are on the rise, and data shows that between 2016 and 2022, teens visiting the ER for these reasons rose 59%. Children’s mental health challenges are not because of the pandemic alone, as it’s important to note that suicide deaths have increased among children over the past two decades.

Suicidal ideation is when a person has thoughts about or contemplates suicide, thus becoming a danger to themselves and others. Having a child experiencing severe mental health issues that express thoughts of dying or committing suicide can be terrifying for any parent or caregiver. When a teen is seen in the ER, the goal is to stabilize the patient and assess to determine a plan that outlines next steps. The outcomes can vary depending on the specifics of the situation;. At the same time, some may be able to return home with a safety plan in place, and plans for outpatient treatment, while other more severe situations may call for inpatient treatment to stabilize the patient.

The Pandemic’s Impact on Mental Health in Teens

Several factors have driven the uptick in mental health deterioration in teens, and the pandemic has also contributed to the problem. During the pandemic, people spent time in isolation, in lockdown, fearing contracting the virus, facing illness, losing loved ones, amplified financial challenges, housing issues, educational setbacks, and more. As a result, it should come as no surprise that mental health issues have been prevalent. As people begin to settle into their new normals, mental health issues are still present, calling on a need for therapeutic services like counseling. While there have been challenges as a result of the pandemic, it has also paved the way for new and innovative ideas to make counseling more accessible to patients, as they now have access to virtual telehealth appointments at the touch of a button.

When to Seek Counseling

Early intervention is important for teenagers in need of mental health services. Teens experience a myriad of challenges during a short period when their bodies undergo many changes. If you notice any changes in your child’s mood, such as:

• Sadness
• Crying
• Sudden Mood Changes
• Appetite Changes
• Sleep Changes
• Impacted Academic Performance
• Withdrawal from Social Activities
• +More

It may be time to begin searching for an experienced provider who can help. Call today to learn more about Schaumburg, IL counseling from the LOTUS WELLNESS CENTER.