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Mood disorders in the time of COVID-19: the importance of relationships
New findings highlight how the deterioration of close relationships during COVID-19 is having a negative impact on people’s mental health, particularly among those with mood disorders, explains clinical psychologist Andrew Wu.
The COVID-19 pandemic and enforced social isolation has resulted in significant changes in the way people interact, placing relationships under pressure. While these changes brought about by COVID-19 may be difficult for us all, people suffering from mood disorders are more vulnerable to the negative impacts and may require additional psychological support.
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During these challenging times, it is crucial that people experiencing a decline in their mental health seek help early rather than attempting to cope with the problem on their own, particularly amidst the mental health impacts of social isolation.
New findings from Relationships Australia indicate that Australians are struggling to maintain positive relationships during COVID-19 isolation, with 42% of people reporting a negative change in their relationship with their partner as a result of social isolation and challenging living situations.
Andrew Wu, a clinical psychologist at Ramsay Psychology, describes how extremely beneficial positive relationships are in supporting those with mental health conditions.
“People who are predisposed to mood disorders are developing severe psychological problems as a result of the lockdown, amid growing stresses over isolation and relationship breakdown. Being cut off from family and friends, and disruption to healthcare services are exacerbating existing mental health problems.
Andrew Wu, clinical psychologist at Ramsay Psychology
Additionally, those experiencing a disconnect in their relationships are less likely to receive support from loved ones who would have otherwise picked up signs of deterioration in their mental health. Importantly, transforming relationships into ones that feel safe, secure and connected is extremely effective in reducing the symptoms of mood disorder – it is therefore crucial for loved ones to maintain healthy relationships with those at risk of mood disorders,” said Wu.
Where mood disorders may be present it is important to take action – psychological support in the form of individual, family and relationship therapy can help improve a person’s ability to develop and nurture stable and loving relationships. Fostering personal connections with highly qualified teams in relationship support can bridge the current gap between the under-resourced hospital treatments and limited communitybased therapies on offer.
“There tends to be a sole focus on the sufferer when diagnosed or at-risk of a mood disorder. However, it is also important to consider the complexities of the people’s relationships with others, and how this can help or hinder sufferers’ progress,” explained Wu.
Greater awareness of the role of psychological treatment in developing and maintaining positive relationships with the self and others is needed in order to reduce the escalation of distress for those at risk or suffering from mood disorders. “There are often hidden or predisposing factors that allow people to be more at-risk of mood disorders. This could be genetic, social, cultural or environmental factors. If loved ones could be aware of the signs this could increase the chance of prevention and early intervention,” Wu said. Family and friends can provide better care if they are informed about the illness, understand the type of treatment and are aware of the expected recovery time. The signs and symptoms of mood disorders include: • Feeling sad most of the time or nearly every day • Loss of appetite or over-eating • Sleeping too much or not enough • Loss of interest in the activities previously enjoyed • Frequent thoughts of death or suicide • Difficulties in concentrating or focussing
If you or a loved one are experiencing some of these symptoms, it is advised you seek medical advice from a GP and consult a mood disorder or relationship specialist.
Andrew Wu is a Psychologist at Ramsay Psychology - located on the ground floor consulting suites at Northside Group St Leonards Clinic. To learn more, or to book a consultation, call 1300 171 715 or visit
