The most common Covid concern is anxiety, which stemmed from fear, about health, losing loved ones, or plain mass hysteria around the virus's spread.
Although the Covid-19 situation has improved, with many more people travelling and getting back to normal life, many people are still grappling with the mental health issues the pandemic caused.
Month after month of being at home, not seeing loved ones or having a routing, getting sick and loss of friends, family or job, has made the pandemic much more than just a physical issue.
Bangalore-based psychologist Dr Richa Mehrotra of Mpower says, “The pandemic’s overwhelming uncertainty has undeniably left implications on people's mental health. The most common concern is anxiety, which stemmed from fear, about health, losing loved ones, or plain mass hysteria around the virus's spread. This has further progressed to OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) and depression in many cases.” However, there are ways you can cope with the mental effects of the pandemic.
Watch your behaviour
In the early days of the pandemic, there was not as much information on how the virus spreads and how long it lives on surfaces for. We washed and sanitised everything. However, with more information at our disposal, excessive cleaning and hygiene that gets in the way of daily life should be observed. “Individuals should take note of irregular and unwarranted behaviour and thought patterns,” says Mehrotra. Common behaviours include excessive hand washing, compulsive cleaning, and a nagging sense of fear. “Seeking help and aid early on from professionals will help you cope faster and effectively,” she adds. When you have a routine, you tend to have a better sense of control.
Avoid triggers
While it is good to keep up to date with the situation around us, going overboard or being obsessed with information around the virus will not help. “While some causes are unavoidable, there are certain steps an individual should take in order to maintain peace of mind and a balanced approach,” says Mehrotra. She suggests avoiding watching too much news, especially unauthorised news sources giving various kinds of information. “Stick to one or two verified sources and consume information, if necessary only once a day. This will keep you from being overwhelmed,” she says.
Follow a routine
When you have a routine, you tend to have a better sense of control not just on your day but on your mental health as well. “A daily routine is needed to keep you from procrastinating,” says Mehrotra. Recreation and re-engaging oneself in hobbies is advised. “Exercise and yoga should also be high up on your daily routine. It is very necessary to keep your support systems i.e. friends and family close and spend quality time with them living in the moment,” she adds.
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Seek help
However, the most important thing you can do when when you feel like your mental health is getting affected is to seek help. “Do not shy away from asking for help. It is best to seek professional help when you do not feel so good. Today with the availability of quality helplines and affordable services, mental health support is fairly accessible and should be taken advantage of,” advises Mehrotra.
The Depression Diary: Art, Music, Food Can Fight Blues
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Depression feels different for different people. It can look like the bitter cold of January for some or a manic Monday to others. But, there are some simple life-hacks that help us keep this fiend in check. Here they are:
Depression feels different for different people. It can look like the bitter cold of January for some or a manic Monday to others. But, there are some simple life-hacks that help us keep this fiend i..
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