Reflecting on the Pandemic: Five Years Since COVID-19 Was Declared a Global Crisis

Five years ago, on March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared COVID-19 a global pandemic, changing the world in ways no one expected.

As we look back, it’s important to think about how the pandemic transformed public health care, mental health, the use of telehealth, and the way we handle getting sick.

A Sobering Toll: More than 1.22 Million Deaths in the U.S.

In the United States, more than 1.22 million people have died from COVID since 2020. The death toll has affected entire families and communities, as well as health care as a whole. During the pandemic’s peak, hospitals were overwhelmed and healthcare workers had to manage many patients with limited resources.

The effects of the pandemic continue to impact people across the country today. According to a survey by the Census Bureau and the National Center for Health Statistics, about 6 percent of adults in the U.S. — or roughly 18 million — are estimated to be suffering from long COVID symptoms.

Mental Health Struggles Amid Isolation and Uncertainty

The COVID pandemic’s impact on mental health was, and continues to be, huge. Lockdowns, social distancing, and fear of the virus caused many people to experience serious anxiety, depression, and stress. This was especially true for healthcare workers, those who lost loved ones, and people who were isolated for long periods.

The WHO reported that anxiety and depression increased by 25 percent worldwide during the first year of the pandemic alone. Social isolation, money problems, and the fear of getting sick made things even worse. As more people struggled with their mental health, there was a greater need for support, which led to calls for stronger mental health services.

Telehealth: A Lifeline in Times of Crisis

One major change during the pandemic was the rise of telehealth. With in-person doctor visits limited because of social distancing, telehealth became a key way for people to get medical advice and care. Virtual appointments allowed people to continue managing their health from home, and ensured preventive care remained top of mind.

The shift to telehealth also showed that some areas, especially rural or underserved communities, lacked the technology needed for these services. Still, telehealth proved valuable not only for regular check-ups, but also for mental health care. It allowed people to talk to therapists and counselors without leaving their homes, which was especially important for those facing emotional and psychological challenges.

A New Consciousness: How We Approach Illness Today

One of the biggest changes since the pandemic is how we handle getting sick. COVID made the public pay more attention to symptoms like fever, cough, and tiredness, which were once seen as minor, but are now considered signs of a possible serious illness. People have also become more careful about washing their hands, wearing masks, and staying home when they feel sick to protect themselves and others.

Looking back on the last five years, it’s clear that COVID has changed the world in many ways. The loss of life, the increase in mental health awareness, the growth of telehealth, and the greater focus on personal health are important shifts. As we continue to recover, these lessons will help guide how we deal with future public health challenges.