The key is not to panic, isolate yourself
KARACHI: As the world comes to grips with the continuing Covid-19 pandemic, it is clear that there is a critical need for global preparedness, collaboration, and effective management strategies. The psychological impact of the coronavirus disease must be recognised alongside the physical symptoms for all those affected. Telehealth, or more specifically tele-mental health services, are practically feasible and appropriate for the support of patients, family members, and health service providers during this pandemic. Psychological symptoms relating to Covid-19 have already been observed on a population including anxiety-driven panic buying and phobia about attending community events. People who have been prevented from accessing their workplace or homes are expected to have developed psychological symptoms due to stress, reduced autonomy and concerns about income, job security, and so on.
In the absence of a medical cure for Covid-19 the global response is a simple public health strategy of isolation for those infected or at risk, reduced social contact to slow the spread of the virus and implementing simple hygiene practices such as hand washing to reduce the risk of infection. While the primary intervention of isolation may well achieve its goals, it leads to the degradation of normal social support systems and causes loneliness. It is also a risk for worsening anxiety and depressive symptoms. If left untreated, these psychological symptoms may have long-term health effects on patients and require treatment adding to the cost burden of managing the illness. This pandemic has led many people facing stress, anxiety, burnout, depressive symptoms, and the need for sick or stress leave, which have a negative impact on the capacity of the health system to provide services during the crisis. The key is not to panic, isolate yourself. If someone is feeling the pressure, stay away from news and social media. Try to learn a new skill and focus your mind on healthy activities.
Maheen Rehmat
Published in The Express Tribune, April 1st, 2020.
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