Handling Stress or Depression in the course of the ‘COVID-19 Lockdown’
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May 11, 2020
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The COVID-19 pandemic and the lockdown following this crisis across parts of the world including India must be one of its kind witnessed in years! The lockdown ensures physical distancing and curbs the rapid spread of disease but could prove too restricting at times affecting emotional health.
Lockdown means not stepping out of home, except for dire necessities. This can be challenging when practiced over a long duration. Adding to the restlessness is news highlighting the disease spread. The natural emotions that follow are fear, anxiety, panic, or depression.
First of all, stay connected with family and friends through telephonic calls, e-mails, video chat, or social media. Always ensure to:
- Maintain a regular routine at home
- Be physically active, eat healthily and stay hydrated
- Avoid negative emotions by practicing meditation or nurturing hobbies.
Be optimistic while you may work from home. This will help you stay at your emotional best. If there are children at home, allow them to help in household chores, and help them acquire new skills. Address the elderly at home with assurance and patience and talk to them about their special needs. Help them maintain mobility at home.
Be sensitive to problems of your near and dear ones which may include changes in sleep patterns or worsening of existing health conditions. Persons with previous mental illness may face newer challenges during self-isolation. If problems persist, contact a mental health professional.
It is important not to refer to people with the disease as ‘COVID-19 victims’, but as ‘people recovering from COVID-19’. This will reduce the stigma associated with the disease.
Remind yourself of the purpose of lockdown and maintain positivity. This way the battle can be won more easily; for together we can and we will!
Developed by Scientific Angle brought to you by Health Meter Services
Disclaimer: Don’t follow any suggestions in this article without consulting a qualified doctor
Sources:
- ‘Minding our minds during the COVID-19.’ Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW). Available at: https://www.mohfw.gov.in/pdf/MindingourmindsduringCoronaeditedat.pdf.
- ‘Mental Health and Psychosocial Considerations During the COVID-19 Outbreak.’ World Health Organization (WHO). Available at: https://www.who.int/docs/default-source/coronaviruse/mental-health-considerations.pdf.
- 'Stress and Coping'. Coronavirus Disease 2019. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/managing-stress-anxiety.html.