The State of Mental Health, Part 1: What happened in 2020

The State of Mental Health, Part 1:

What happened in 2020

In Psychology Today, Dr. Anton C. Bizzell discusses how mental health was impacted throughout 2020 because of COVID-19. Once COVID-19 took hold worldwide early last year, its mental health effects quickly began to emerge. There were strong emotional reactions to the virus, particularly fear, uncertainty, and grief. Shutdowns affected societies everywhere; families and friends were separated; and individuals spent weeks or months alone. While hope is on the horizon with the distribution of COVID-19 vaccines, Dr. Bizzell writes, the pandemic and its fallout are far from over. It is more important than ever to examine the impact of the virus on mental health in 2020 and what lessons we can apply to improve mental wellness in 2021 and beyond.

READ MORE: Psychology Today,

Coping With Holiday Grief

Coping with Holiday Grief

On BYU Radio’s The Lisa Show, Dr. Anton C. Bizzell offers his advice on coping with the holiday blues. The holidays can be one of the happiest seasons—but they can also be a difficult time for many, especially this year. While in years past we might have spent this time with family and friends and in religious observances, COVID-19 may keep us home, celebrating with only immediate family or alone. All of this can contribute to feelings of loneliness and sadness. The key, Dr. Bizzell says, is to identify your stressors and develop a toolbox of healthy coping strategies—everything from taking a walk to practicing meditation. It’s also appropriate to seek professional help.

LEARN MORE: The Lisa Show

Dr. Bizzell Discusses Addictions on Landmark Recovery Radio

Dr. Bizzell Discusses Addictions on Landmark Recovery Radio

On a recent episode of Recovery Radio, Dr. Bizzell discusses his experiences working with state and local chambers of commerce and individual businesses on the opioid epidemic and offers his advice for those struggling with drugs and alcohol. He notes that prevention works, treatment is effective, and recovery is possible. Substance addiction is a community problem, and all key stakeholders must be at the table, including employers, teachers, healthcare workers, first responders, and clergy, among others, Dr. Bizzell says. Innovative solutions begin at the top.

LEARN MORE: Recovery Radio

Addressing Rise in OUD Rates Amid COVID-19 Pandemic

Addressing Rise in OUD Rates Amid COVID-19 Pandemic

In his recent article in Behavioral Healthcare Executive, “Stopping the ‘Other’ Surge: Addressing Rise in OUD Rates Amid Pandemic,” Dr. Anton C. Bizzell discusses how patients and their healthcare partners are finding ways to manage their chronic diseases during the pandemic. It is important to remember that addiction is one of these chronic diseases, and it can be managed, even into recovery.
People who use opioids at high doses may be more susceptible to COVID-19 and the illness may be more severe. “We must remain determined to confront the complications that the novel coronavirus has added to our opioid crisis, to provide hope and treatment to this highly vulnerable population,” Dr. Bizzell writes.
READ MORE: Behavioral Healthcare Executive