‘Invisible enemy’ messing with mind, experts urge caution
Bhubaneswar: The nationwide lockdown due to Covid-19 and the subsequent job losses, financial distress, fear of getting infected and living away from the loved ones and more importantly the uncertain future has told upon the mental health of people.
“Every other person is experiencing stress and anxiety though the intensity varies. Mental well-being plays a vital role in keeping the immunity strong,” said Dr S K Padhy, additional professor, department of psychiatry, AIIMS, Bhubaneswar.
“Detecting or identifying the signs of depression or anxiety among people is very important. If the person is showing suicidal tendencies or getting panic attacks then it can be treated with multi-sectoral approach of medication and counselling,” Dr Padhy added.
Mental health experts advise people to stay emotionally connected with loved ones with the help of technology during these social distancing times. “We should remain connected through telephonic conversation, video calls, text messages and social media. There is a need to express our feelings than suppressing them. We have to maintain a routine that includes physical exercise, nutritious food, sleep and entertainment,” said Namita Mohanty, former professor of psychology, Utkal University, and city-based counsellor.
Agrees Dr Subhendu Narayan Mishra, professor in psychiatry, IMS and SUM Hospital. “Family and technology play a vital role as we need to speak to each other, spend time and try to keep everyone relaxed and stress-free. It is advisable to replenish our energy by taking healthy food and drinking water regularly,” he said.
The isolation is impacting the elderly and children too. Children also get bored by staying indoors and they require special attention. Experts feel it is time to pursue our hobbies and passions. In case of children, story-telling sessions and engaging them through art and craft, music and dance and indoor games are very important.
“Do things that you wanted to since long, but had no time for. You can spend time with your family, pet animals, revisit old memories by going back to an album, list your achievements and celebrate the happy moments in life. Stay connected, use this time to build your relationship,” said Dr Padhy, adding a healthy mind strengthens immunity by regulating neuro-hormones.