The COVID-19 pandemic has been active for almost a year now and in that time, it's hurt business and people alike. However, the degree to which people were struggling was unknown. Now that we have experienced the brunt of the damage, it has become clear, age demographics such as young adults are facing increasingly difficult lives. 

Since the beginning of the pandemic social workers, psychologists, and therapists have been actively studying the social implications of the pandemic, and its ever-changing landscape.  

These health professionals believe the pandemic has acted as a catalyst for widespread mental health implications and are concerned about the underlining social fabric. 

Andrea Beck, registered Ph.D. psychologist of Dara Health says, though there are many issues people deal with, the pandemic has been at the top of the list within this last year. 

"Well, in my practice at the moment. The obvious thing on everyone's mind is the pandemic. It is something that comes up in nearly every session," says Beck. "For many people, there seems to be a sense of loss right now. A loss of social interaction. A loss of normal activity. And the loss of a sense of normalcy. I think that the landscape of their life keeps changing, and that's hard to cope with." 

Beck says this shifting landscape has intensified anxiety and depression in the demographics they work with. 

Dana Owen, is a Counsellor at McNaughton & Associates Counselling and says the treatment for these significant symptoms is not cut and dry.

"The main conclusion throughout history has been consistent. Therapy is not a one-size glove that fits all. There are so many factors involved," says Owen. "What I would say is, educating clients surrounding mental health and to become more aware of their emotional state is a key factor, in resolving inner turmoil." 

However, both professionals expressed a similar opinion on an age demographic that appears disproportionate in the effects of depression and anxiety. That's being young adults. 

Lewis Warmby, a Cochrane resident, and a post-secondary student would agree with this sentiment. 

"It's hard to find any form of relaxation as of late. I can't go into town as much. I can't see my friends at all, and I can't see my girlfriend either. Which brings down my mental health quite a bit"  

Expression of mental struggle within young adults has become more evident in this last year. 

However, people such as Warmby understand the importance of talking about their emotions and working through them. 

Health professionals would hope to see more self-exploration in those who are struggling at this time. However, that's not to say it will be easy. That's why they would recommend professional help to acquire a baseline understanding of where to start in your journey.