The global pandemic has cast a long shadow over our mental health landscape, with anxiety disorders now being termed a 'silent epidemic'. In this deep dive, we aim to unmask this silent menace, uncovering the reasons behind its rise and offering resources for those in need.

The last few years have been a stark reminder of our shared vulnerability. With lockdowns, health scares, and a constant influx of unnerving news, it's hardly surprising that the incidence of anxiety disorders has risen dramatically. A survey conducted by the CDC showed a substantial rise in anxiety symptoms among adults compared to pre-pandemic times.

However, the aftermath of this pandemic is more than a tally of cases. It's about the lives it has subtly reshaped - people grappling with lingering fear, the unease of reintegration into society, and those still in the throes of a health-induced existential crisis.

For anyone affected, it's crucial to remember you're not alone. Professional help is available, and numerous resources have been established to provide support. For instance, the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) offers a comprehensive directory of therapists and provides self-help tools, tips, and strategies. Other resources include the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) and the American Psychological Association (APA), which provide in-depth information and resources on anxiety disorders.

Remember, there's no shame in seeking help. As we unmask this silent epidemic, we illuminate the path towards understanding, compassion, and, most importantly, healing.

1. Twenge, J. M., & Joiner, T. E. (2020). Mental distress among U.S. adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. Journal of Clinical Psychology. DOI: 10.1002/jclp.23070
2. Czeisler, M. É., Lane, R. I., Petrosky, E., Wiley, J. F., Christensen, A., Njai, R., ... & Czeisler, C. A. (2020). Mental health, substance use, and suicidal ideation during the COVID-19 pandemic — United States, June 24–30, 2020. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, 69(32), 1049. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.mm6932a1
3. Holmes, E. A., O'Connor, R. C., Perry, V. H., Tracey, I., Wessely, S., Arseneault, L., ... & Ford, T. (2020). Multidisciplinary research priorities for the COVID-19 pandemic: a call for action for mental health science. The Lancet Psychiatry. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/S2215-0366(20)30168-1

**The information contained in this blog is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your mental health professional or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your condition. Never disregard professional advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this blog. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately. The author does not recommend or endorse any specific tests, physicians, products, procedures, opinions, or other information that may be mentioned on the site. Reliance on any information provided by the author is solely at your own risk.