Covid 19 And Mental Health

The world is experiencing a transition to survive through the COVID-19 pandemic which is completely unprepared and unprecedented. The recent changes have tipped off the balance for every section of the society. 

WHAT IS THE IMPACT OF PANDEMIC & LOCKDOWN ON US?

The restructured lives seem to be burdening different groups (GENERAL POPULATION OR VULNERABLE ONES) with their own unique challenges. The current period of lockdown is going to challenge the human psyche of every being.

The mental health burden is going to be higher in groups with preexisting medical conditions (diabetes, hypertension, asthma), pre-existing psychiatric/psychological disorders, substance use disorders, immune-compromised individuals, etc.  This would cause mental health symptoms like higher rates of anxiety, nervousness, fear of contaminating with the illness, repeated washing of hands, constant reassurance-seeking behaviors, panic attacks, sleep disturbance, excessive worry, feeling helplessness, social isolation, etc.

The general population is also at a higher risk of vulnerability to mental health challenges due to numerous reasons. Most of these could be boredom, extensive exposure to COVID-19 related information, poor demarcation of work-life, limitation on the choice of leisure activities, limited options in one’s usual routine, fear of infection leading to compulsive cleaning rituals, uncertainty about future regarding major fronts- job, finances and family well-being and lack of personal space. 

MENTAL STABILITY DURING PANDEMIC & LOCKDOWN

The ability with which every individual shall adapt to the needs and necessities will determine the mental stability and the resultant state of well-being. 

The adaptability requires openness to experience, being mindful about oneself, learning to focus on the current moment than to anticipate the problems after, building effective communication strategies with family members, embracing distress, and addressing interpersonal, etc. 

WHAT NEEDS TO BE DONE? STRATEGIES TO DEAL WITH IT?

Denial of the problem will only bring more complicated challenges. The healthy and mature way of dealing with the current crisis starts with acceptance. 

1.Acknowledging the distress will help in preparing better

2. Practice mindfulness by focussing on TODAY than TOMORROW

3. Focus on what is in your control such as maintaining physical (proper sleep, eating the right food, cleanliness) and psychological hygiene (emotional regulation, emotional expression, etc.)

4. Practice ‘Social Distancing’, NOT ‘Emotional Distancing”. Keep yourself connected with your loved ones via digital platforms. 

5. Engage in group activities with family members- play indoor games, work out together, etc.

6. Fairly divide the household responsibilities amongst each other to avoid overburdening of one member

7. Transparent communication of distress with loved ones

8. Exhibit empathy and active listening towards others when they are sharing their distress. Avoid judgments and critical comments. Be supportive of each other. 

9. Avoid panic as that is contagious too. 

Altruistic behavior in today’s situation is the key to make it easy for oneself and others. Altruism encourages you to make others feel good and create a sense of belongingness in the current situation of lockdown. An act of kindness won't end the problem but will unite us to help each other maintain our mental stability in the current times.  

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