The COVID-19 pandemic didn’t just change our routines—it reshaped how we live, work, relate to others, and even see ourselves. Lockdowns, school closures, remote work, and social distancing kept people safe from infection, but they also came with a cost to emotional and mental well-being.
Research shows that anxiety and depression increased significantly around the world during the pandemic, largely tied to isolation, uncertainty, and disruption of daily life. World Health Organization+1 For many people, the emotional effects didn’t disappear when restrictions were lifted. They show up as lingering stress, burnout, social anxiety, low mood, or a general sense that “I’m just not the same.”
At Unlimited Roads Behavioral Health in Northfield, Minnesota, we understand how deeply COVID lockdowns may have affected you and your family. Our goal is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space to process what you’ve been through and help you move forward with confidence and support.
How COVID Lockdowns Impacted Mental Health
1. Increased Anxiety and Depression
Lockdowns brought a perfect storm of stressors: fear of illness, financial worries, changes in work and school, and constant news about rising case counts and loss. The World Health Organization reported a sharp global increase in anxiety and depression during the first year of the pandemic. World Health Organization+1
Common experiences included:
- Constant worry about health and safety
- Feeling “on edge” or restless
- Trouble concentrating
- Persistent sadness or hopelessness
- Loss of motivation or interest in normal activities
For some, these symptoms have eased. For others, they’ve become an ongoing struggle.
2. Loneliness, Isolation, and Social Disconnection
Lockdowns and social distancing reduced in-person contact with friends, extended family, coworkers, classmates, and community groups. Studies show strong links between loneliness during lockdowns and increased anxiety and depression. SpringerLink+1
You might still notice:
- Feeling uncomfortable or anxious in social situations
- Feeling “out of practice” with conversation or connection
- Pulling back from relationships that once felt easy
- Grieving milestones that were missed or postponed
Rebuilding social confidence and trust can take time—and you don’t have to do it alone.
3. Stress on Families, Parents, and Children
For many households, home suddenly became school, office, daycare, restaurant, and everything in between. Parents juggled remote work, virtual learning, health concerns, and financial uncertainty. Kids and teens faced changes in schooling, reduced time with friends, and a constant sense of uncertainty.
Research in the U.S. and globally has highlighted ongoing concerns about youth mental health—especially anxiety, depression, and academic stress—years after the height of the pandemic. Pew Research Center+2Houston Chronicle+2
Families may still be noticing:
- Behavior changes in children (irritability, withdrawal, outbursts)
- Academic struggles or school avoidance
- Conflict between parents and children
- Caregiver burnout, exhaustion, or resentment
Family or individual therapy can help each family member be heard, understood, and supported.
4. Grief, Trauma, and Long-Term Effects
Beyond stress and anxiety, some people experienced traumatic losses during the pandemic: the death of loved ones, serious illness, job loss, or major life disruptions. Others are coping with the emotional effects of long COVID or chronic health issues that emerged during this time. National Institute of Mental Health+2Mayo Clinic+2
These experiences can lead to:
- Intrusive memories or nightmares
- Avoidance of reminders of the pandemic
- Strong emotional reactions to news stories or health updates
- Ongoing fatigue, brain fog, or sleep problems tied to stress
Therapy provides a place to process these experiences in a structured, compassionate way.
How Unlimited Roads Behavioral Health Can Help
At Unlimited Roads Behavioral Health, we recognize that every person’s experience of the pandemic and lockdowns is different. Some clients come in with clear concerns—like panic attacks, depression, or relationship conflict—while others just feel “stuck” or “not themselves” and aren’t sure why.
Our clinicians can help with:
- Anxiety and panic related to health, crowds, or social situations
- Depression, low motivation, and burnout
- Grief and loss related to COVID-19
- Family and relationship stress heightened by lockdowns
- Challenges for children and teens adjusting back to “normal”
- Coping with chronic stress, long COVID, and lifestyle changes
Treatment approaches may include:
- Individual therapy (for adults, teens, and in some cases older children)
- Family or couples counseling
- Cognitive-behavioral strategies for anxiety and depression
- Skills for emotional regulation, communication, and boundary-setting
- Support in rebuilding routines, goals, and a sense of meaning
You are not being “dramatic” or “behind” if you’re still affected by what happened during COVID.
Healing doesn’t follow a calendar, and there is no deadline for getting support.
Practical Coping Strategies After COVID Lockdowns
Therapy is a powerful tool, but there are also steps you can start today:
Rebuild Healthy Routines
- Set consistent sleep and wake times when possible.
- Plan regular meals and hydration.
- Add gentle movement (even a 10-minute walk) into your day.
Reconnect Socially at Your Own Pace
- Start with small, manageable interactions—one-on-one coffee, a short visit, or a phone call.
- Let trusted friends or family know if you feel nervous about being social again.
- Balance in-person time with restorative alone time.
Limit Overwhelming News Consumption
- Choose specific times to check the news instead of constant scrolling.
- Use reliable health and news sources to avoid misinformation and added anxiety. Mayo Clinic+1
Practice Self-Compassion
- Notice critical self-talk like “I should be over this by now” and gently challenge it.
- Recognize that many people are still adjusting, even if you don’t see it on the surface.
If these strategies don’t feel like enough—or you simply want guidance—you don’t have to figure it out alone.
COVID Lockdowns & Mental Health: Q&A
Q: Is it normal to still feel anxious or low years after lockdowns ended?
A: Yes. While many people have gradually adjusted, others continue to feel the emotional impact of the pandemic and lockdowns. Studies show that mental health challenges can persist long after restrictions are lifted, especially if there was trauma, grief, or major life disruption. Mayo Clinic+2The Washington Post+2 Seeking help now is just as valid as it would have been in 2020 or 2021.
Q: How do I know if what I’m feeling is “serious enough” to seek help?
A: Consider reaching out for professional support if you notice any of the following:
- Your mood, worry, or stress is interfering with work, school, or relationships
- You’ve lost interest in things you used to enjoy
- You’re having trouble sleeping or your appetite has changed significantly
- You’re relying more on alcohol or substances to cope
- You feel hopeless, worthless, or like things will never improve
You don’t need to wait until things feel “unbearable.” Therapy can be helpful at any stage of struggling.
Important: If you are thinking about harming yourself or others, this is an emergency. Call 988 (the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in the U.S.), go to the nearest emergency room, or call 911 right away.
Q: My child’s behavior changed during lockdown and hasn’t gone back to “normal.” Can therapy help?
A: Yes. Children and teens went through a major upheaval—changes in school routines, friendships, activities, and family stress. Some kids became more withdrawn or anxious; others more irritable or defiant. Therapy can help kids express what they’re feeling, learn coping skills, and rebuild confidence. Family sessions can also support communication and understanding at home.
Q: I’m nervous about in-person appointments. Do you offer options that feel safer or more comfortable?
A: Many behavioral health practices, including ours, have adapted since COVID to offer flexible options. This may include:
- In-person sessions with infection-control measures
- Telehealth/virtual therapy sessions (where permitted)
- Hybrid models combining in-person and online visits
When you contact Unlimited Roads Behavioral Health, we can discuss current options and help you choose what feels most comfortable and accessible for you.
Q: What if my relationships changed or ended during lockdowns?
A: It’s very common to see shifts in friendships, marriages, and family relationships after such a stressful period. Some people grew closer; others realized long-standing conflicts or differences. Therapy can help you:
- Process grief or anger over changes in relationships
- Understand patterns that show up repeatedly
- Learn healthier communication and boundary-setting
- Explore how you want to show up in relationships going forward
You are allowed to mourn what has been lost and build something new.
Q: Can therapy really help with something as “big” as a global pandemic?
A: Therapy can’t change what happened, but it can change how you carry it. A therapist can help you:
- Make sense of what you went through
- Reduce symptoms like anxiety, panic, and depression
- Rebuild routines, values, and goals
- Strengthen coping skills for future stressors
- Feel less alone in your experience
Many people report that having a space to talk openly about the pandemic’s impact—without being told to “move on”—is deeply relieving.
Q: How do I get started with Unlimited Roads Behavioral Health?
A: Getting started is simple. You can call us to schedule an appointment or ask questions about services, insurance, and availability. Our team will guide you through the process step by step.
Contact Unlimited Roads Behavioral Health
If you or someone you love is still feeling the effects of COVID lockdowns—emotionally, mentally, or in your relationships—support is available.
Unlimited Roads Behavioral Health
600 Professional Dr #8
Northfield, MN 55057
Phone: (507) 879-5002
You deserve care that honors everything you’ve been through and helps you find your way forward. When you’re ready, we’re here to walk that road with you.