A new survey analyzed how the COVID-19 pandemic is affecting the overall health of Americans...and the results aren't exactly surprising.

Conducted by MDVIP, a national network of primary care physicians, the survey shows that 51% of Americans are feeling stressed, anxious, and/or depressed because of the pandemic, while 32% of Americans reported feeling "like they were losing their mind."

Many Americans are also avoiding going to their primary care doctors right now, and Dr. Andrea Klemes, Chief Medical Officer of MDVIP, believes that this could partly be the cause of elevated stress levels.

"90% of people in the survey said that they trusted their doctor to know everything about COVID, but only 30% reached out," said Dr. Klemes in our "Tuned In to NoCo" interview. "When we asked [Americans] to rank what the riskiest places are...hospitals and doctor officers were high up on that list, I think people are afraid of getting it there. Doctors offices are safe, hospitals are safe. You need to reach out or have a doctor who reaches out to you."

In order to alleviate stress, Dr. Klemes recommends exercising, safely socializing with family and friends, and avoiding toxicity, on top of establishing regular contact with a primary care physician.

However, the pandemic hasn't had a negative effect on all Americans. In fact, the survey shows that it has inspired 70% of Americans to prioritize their health, from eating better to exercising more.

"I'm hopeful there's a silver lining. That people will start to get motivated, and change things, and get a little bit healthier, especially when we start to go into the winter months, when most people...slow down a little bit and are inside because it's colder out," said Dr. Klemes. "One small change can give you one small win, and make it easier for you to keep making changes."

To learn more about how COVID-19 is affecting the overall health of Americans, listen to the full "Tuned In to NoCo" interview with Dr. Andrea Klemes below.

Enter your number to get our free mobile app

Here Are the 5 Safest Materials For Homemade Face Masks

 

More From Laramie Live