In our latest episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Jessica Gold, an Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine. Dr. Gold's expertise lies in college mental health, medical education, and physician wellness. During our conversation, we delved into her impactful work, focusing on supporting the mental health needs of college students and destigmatizing mental health and psychiatry as a whole.

The Impact of COVID-19 on Mental Health:

Dr. Gold shed light on how the COVID-19 pandemic has intensified existing stressors and introduced new challenges, affecting various groups, including college students and healthcare workers. Specifically, she highlighted the detrimental effects of social isolation on college students' mental health, emphasizing the additional strain caused by the shift to online learning, which exacerbated pre-existing attention problems. Dr. Gold also discussed the lack of structure during the pandemic, which negatively impacted students' motivation and interest in their studies.

Looking Ahead and Supporting Mental Health:

Our conversation concluded with a focus on the lessons we can learn from the pandemic in terms of supporting college students' mental health. Dr. Gold emphasized the importance of current research on the neurological effects of COVID-19 and how it can inform our understanding of mental health. Furthermore, she emphasized the need to cultivate a stronger mental health workforce, particularly in the field of psychiatry, to meet the growing demand for services. By addressing these issues, we can create a more resilient and supportive environment for college students and enhance mental health support on campuses.

Dr. Jessica Gold's invaluable insights and dedication to mental health have provided us with a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by college students, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her work serves as a reminder of the importance of fostering a culture that prioritizes mental well-being and supports those in need. By working together, we can ensure that college campuses become nurturing spaces that empower students to thrive both academically and emotionally.

For more information on Dr. Gold and her work please visit her webpage, https://www.drjessigold.com/ as well as her instagram (@drjessigold) and twitter https://twitter.com/drjessigold.

For more information on Parent Pocket Membership please visit Thriving Toddler.com