Effects Of COVID-19 On Mental Health

In late 2019, medical professionals identified the COVID-19 or coronavirus disease in Wuhan, China. This highly-contagious virus targets the respiratory system. In the days ahead, this virus in Wuhan would reek havoc on the physical body, the collective effects of COVID-19 on global mental health may this virus the most infamous virus in the modern era.

Indications Of Covid-19

While medical professionals continue to learn more everyday in the fight against this pandemic, there are many symptoms that may be evidence of a positive COVID-19 infection. The COVID-19 signs include:

• Cough
• Difficulty in breathing
• Aching throat
• Loss of taste or smell
• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Fever or chills
• Exhaustion,
• Nausea and vomiting
• Congestion or runny nose
• Body aches

In extreme cases, COVID-19 can cause death. The standard procedure in such pandemics is a forced lockdown. It is very important  to maintain social distancing in all public places to limit the chances of the disease spreading. Social distancing and minimizing large crowds can reduce new cases.

Adverse Effects Of Covid-19

These safety measures leave people locked up in their homes, as many offices, schools, colleges, and business centers shutter their doors. A radical shift in people’s daily routine leaves them feeling lonely, and cut off from family and friends. Instead of leading a busy life, running to and from work, people are worried; and afraid for their health and safety. As a result, the pandemic saw a sudden decline in mental health. The number of suicide cases increased rapidly. It has led to an increase anxiety among healthcare professionals, every echelon of government, and the general public.

The population must deal balance the many issues that surface due to the increasingly isolated situation. The symptoms can worsen due to limited resources and unsure infrastructure. Another source of anxiety for the people is that little is known about the new virus. Many rumors and false news reports spread like wildfire on social media. This caused anxiety and depression in the general public.

The Fear Of Covid-19

Since there is no vaccine, established agreement, or evidence-based clinical treatments, this disease has caused damage to everyone’s’ mental health. There is a very valid fear of catching this disease or losing family members and friends. Moreover, this fear causes people to isolate themselves from their families, change their daily routines; and even reduce their social support system. They do all of this in the hopes of keeping their loved ones and fellow citizens safe from the deadly virus.

Unsurprisingly, all these things negatively affect the mental health of the general public. In 2003, there was an outbreak of SARS or severe acute respiratory syndrome. 18-57% of Health Care Professionals suffered severe emotional problems and psychiatric symptoms during and after the breakout. The health professionals that are trained to handle emergencies and disasters are negatively affected; and their mental health worsens due to Covid-19. The cumulative effect of prolonged social isolation and interruption to routine caused by Covid-19 on the mental health of the public is immeasurable!

The Covid-19 Pandemic

In 2015, when the Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS)broke out, it caused depression and stress in those affected by it. Many other studies have reported that mental health involvements for all healthcare individuals during epidemics and pandemics are long-lasting. Even after some time had passes after such events, people experienced high stress, anxiety, depression; and even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

The coronavirus pandemic quickly moves across the world. People are feeling a significant amount of fear, worry, and concern. It includes certain groups, such as older adults and care providers, with difficult health conditions. In commonly used mental health terms; the most significant psychological issue up till now is rapidly increasing levels of stress and anxiety.

But, scientists have introduced new steps and impacts, especially quarantine against the effects Of COVID-19. Its effects on many people’s typical activities are serious. The levels of loneliness, depression, harmful alcohol, drug use, and suicidal behavior are also likely to rise. In heavily affected places like Lombardy in Italy; people with developing or general mental health settings are now a significant concern. The mental health and wellbeing of battlelineworkers are also on the decline.

Effects Of COVID-19 In A Nutshell

Due to this pandemic, travel reductions, social isolation, stay‐at‐home orders, and quarantines brought normalcy to a halt and ushered in a new type of social austerity. These policies, while protecting the public health. triggered an increased helplessness regarding mental well being. Extreme and prolonged psychological states like boredom, fear, and frustration are closely related to post‐traumatic symptoms, depression, and anxiety.