So I don't need to tell you that this past year during the Coronavirus Pandemic has been tough, in fact, many have found themselves dealing with depression. Feeling blue, down, and depressed. Whether it has been health-related with Covid 19 or economics, it has been one of our most challenging years in memory.

Residents have had to deal with their own health issues and the health of loved ones, even losing family and friends during the Coronavirus Pandemic. Add to that the lose of jobs and income, it has been a terribly tough year for many.

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Recently we have heard of the struggles that entertainer Demi Lovato had to deal with. Struggling with depression and almost suicide. Ms. Lovato has recently spoken out about depression and the horrible effects it can have on someone, including their friends and family. Lovato had to deal with mental health issues, eating disorders, and drug addiction as well as other health issues, that almost cost her her life. We hope her going public with her story will resonate with younger generations and help them seek help if they need it.

I was fortunate to be able to connect with a local doctor here at the Shore. Dr. Gary W. Small, M.D. who is Chair of Psychiatry, Hackensack University Medical Center, Physician in Chief, Behavioral Health Care Transformation Services. Dr. Small took time to talk with me about depression and how to best deal with this problem, especially during the current pandemic.

 

 

CLICK HERE for more information from Hackensack Meridian Health

 

Full List Of Ocean County, New Jersey Vaccine Locations (3/20/21)

Bookmark this page and follow the sites below to sign up for one of the vaccines approved by the FDA for emergency use during the pandemic.

READ MORE: 10 free apps to help you get fit in our new normal

LOOK: Answers to 30 common COVID-19 vaccine questions

While much is still unknown about the coronavirus and the future, what is known is that the currently available vaccines have gone through all three trial phases and are safe and effective. It will be necessary for as many Americans as possible to be vaccinated in order to finally return to some level of pre-pandemic normalcy, and hopefully these 30 answers provided here will help readers get vaccinated as soon they are able.

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