Coronavirus is no longer just about one becoming infected; it is more about
you being a vessel of contact with others. This is about you potentially
spreading the virus to those who cannot survive it. This is about caring for
each other.
The spread of COVID-19 is more than just the physiological symptoms, it may
affect our mental health. Let s throw some light on how Corona pandemic is
triggering Mental health issues:
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Firstly, the ongoing pandemic threat has changed the basic mindset of
human beings from “living” to “survival”, creating a situation of
existential crisis.
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The global
panic
has increased health
anxiety.
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As a precaution, one has to keep repeating behaviours of washing hands,
sanitizing and maintaining hygiene, which is leading to the development of
OCD
traits.
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The wide spread of COVID-19 has caused the Global economy to go down,
hence decreasing job and financial security, establishing a depressive
trend globally.
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Fear of losing loved ones has triggered feelings of hopelessness and
despair.
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Quarantine makes it even more difficult to distract oneself from existing
mental health issues. The current scenarios demand isolation, promoting
social withdrawal and therefore inducing feelings of loneliness among
people.
The spread of coronavirus has increased
anxiety
among the population about the outbreak, the feelings of anxiety, distress and
concern many people may be experiencing in relation to the coronavirus
(COVID-19) and offers the following well-being advice, health experts say.
WHO Stated “Avoid looking, studying or listening to information that purpose
you to sense nerve-racking or distressed; are looking for facts particularly
to take realistic steps to put together your plans and protect yourself and
cherished ones, Seek statistics updates at particular times at some stage in
the day a couple of times. The surprising and close-to-consistent circulation
of information reports about a virulent disease can reason all of us to feel
worried.” Don’t panic by checking updates on the impact of the virus. Also,
ensure that you check only reliable sources of information. Recheck the
credibility of the source of information before sharing it. Untrue information
might cause hue and cry among others.
However, it is normal to feel overwhelmed due to the break out of such cases
but panic is surely not the solution. Especially if you are suffering from a
chronic illness stress may weaken your immune system and make you vulnerable
to the virus. This might feel difficult or stressful. But there are lots of
things you can try that could help your well-being.
Following ideas may help you think and feel better in this state of
panic
. Here is what you can do about it:
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If you ve been asked to stay at home and avoid other people, it might feel
more difficult than usual to take care of your mental health and
well-being. Indulge in indoor activities, do gardening, and make the most
of this time.
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Don’t judge people based on their ethnicity aka not every Chinese is
infected. Try to avoid assumptions regardless of race, or culture.
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It is essential to make the children and others in the family aware of the
situation without really causing an alarming state. Spread awareness don’t
be misguided by any available information.
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Some mental health problems can cause difficult feelings or behaviour to
do with washing or hygiene. If you experience this, you might find it hard
to hear advice about washing your hands.
If this is making you feel stressed or anxious, here are some things you could
try:
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Don’t keep re-reading the same advice if this is unhelpful for you.
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Breathing exercises can help you cope and feel more in control.
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Set limits, like washing your hands for the recommended 20 seconds.
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Plan something to do after washing your hands. This could help distract
you and change your focus.
People may tend to experience periods of loneliness or isolation whether or
not infected with the disorder. It is advisable to stay connected to your
friend and family, not through direct contact but at least through phone calls
or social media. You may also connect to a
HopeQure Therapist for online
counselling and getting emotional support.