The Year 2020 is almost over, and many people are counting down the minutes until a fresh, and hopefully better, start in 2021. The worldwide COVID-19 pandemic and other events of 2020 have significantly impacted several aspects of life. In addition to affecting how people work, go to school, and exercise, COVID has also resulted in greater mental health challenges. The American Psychological Association conducted a survey earlier this year and found that COVID had increased peopleâs stress levels. Kirsten Freitag Murray is the director of development and public relations at Creative Health Services. Creative Health is located in Pottstown and provides behavioral healthcare for children and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, opioid use disorder and several other behavioral health conditions. Below, she provides information about how events of this year have affected the mental health of individuals and tips on how to manage the added stress.