The pandemic has infected people physically and taken several lives across the globe. But what about its effect on mental wellbeing?
By Dr Shriya Raina
Stress, anxiety, loneliness, depression, increased consumption of alcohol and drugs, self-harm and suicidal behaviour are some of the signs that people are struggling to cope with COVID-19. The lockdowns and social distancing norms have changed life as we know it. For some, livelihoods have become a matter of concern, while others are grappling with the new realities of spending time at home.
Experts find that the surge in health anxiety is increasing being manifested in the form of maladaptive behaviours. For instance, repeated medical consultations, avoiding care even if genuinely ill, hoarding particular items, mistrust of public authorities and scapegoating of particular populations or groups, are often symptoms of a bigger issue.
Data says
A recent study in China found that 16.5 per cent people reported moderate to severe depressive symptoms, while 28.8 per cent reported moderate to severe anxiety symptoms and 8.1 per cent reported moderate to severe stress levels. Incidentally, 84.7 per cent of the people said that they spent 20-24 hours per day at home and 75.2 per cent were worried about their family members contracting COVID-19.
There have been similar studies in other parts of the world. For instance, a study in Ethiopia reported a three-fold increase in the prevalence of symptoms of depression since COVID-19. In Canada, 47 per cent of healthcare workers reported a need for psychological support and 20 per cent of 15-49 year-olds have increased their alcohol consumption during the pandemic.
In the US, a federal emergency hotline for people in emotional distress registered more than 1,000 per cent increase in April 2020 as compared to last year! A person who recovered from COVID-19 reported that he couldn’t go out for walks as his neighbours looked at him differently, causing him stress.
Addressing the issue
According to the United Nations, mental health is one of the most neglected areas of health and the global economy loses more than USD one trillion per year due to depression and anxiety. The World Health Organization (WHO) also acknowledges that during the current crisis, “a failure to take people’s emotional well-being seriously will lead to long-term social and economic costs to society.”
As fear and anxiety reign supreme, it’s important to remember that most people recover from COVID-19. In a majority of cases, COVID-19-infected people have mild symptoms, which do not require them to be admitted to a hospital. Only people who have breathing difficulties need to be hospitalised.
The best way to fight the epidemic of medical misinformation is to access and believe only reliable sources of information. It’s important not to spread unverified news or rumours that cause unnecessary panic and stress.
The Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has shared practical ways in which we can take care of our mental health during this pandemic. Whether it’s rediscovering old hobbies, or keeping fit through indoor exercises, the idea is to cater to the needs of the mind and body. And if that entails seeking professional help, there’s no reason to hesitate.
