What to do about mental disorders in times of COVID-19?
The COVID-19 pandemic is causing fear and worry among many people, increasing the risk of depression and anxiety disorders. A current study examined the effects of the pandemic on the risk of mental disorders.
The University of Texas research team found that COVID-19 favors the development of depression and anxiety. The results of the study were published in the New England Journal of Medicine.
Effects of COVID-19 on the psyche should be monitored
Our health care system is reaching its limits in times of the COVID-19 pandemic, but the researchers report that psychosocial needs – including people with COVID-19 and health care workers – should not be lost sight of during the pandemic.
Depression, anxiety, and suicides from COVID-19?
Although the general conditions of the pandemic do not meet the criteria that are necessary for the diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), the study has shown that depression and anxiety can result from the pandemic, and some people could even become suicidal.
Consequences of COVID-19 for society
The lack of resources for the treatment of infected people is already leading to uncertain forecasts in some US states, and measures such as the construction of emergency shelters are being increasingly taken. This also leads to concerns and fears among the population. COVID-19 is therefore a trigger for increased emotional stress and the risk of mental illness increases.
Which people are particularly badly affected?
The study found that certain groups of people are at greater risk. These include people with COVID-19, people at increased risk of COVID-19 (including the elderly and people living with basic health problems), and people with pre-existing mental health or drug abuse problems.
Mental stress for healthcare professionals
Healthcare people are also particularly vulnerable to emotional distress during the pandemic. Due to the lack of personal protective equipment, long working hours and the emotionally stressful treatment of sick people, these people are at increased risk.
Stress, anger and boredom
For example, a recent study of the effects of previous outbreaks on quarantine patients and healthcare people showed stress, depression, insomnia, anxiety, anger, and boredom, among other problems.
What triggers the increased stress?
For example, there is the fear of being exposed to the disease, becoming ill and dying, and the fear of losing the life of friends and relatives. Then there are also secondary effects, such as a lack of money due to short-time work. In bad times, people are generally more stressed and when things are going badly economically, suicide rates among the population increase.
Healthcare people should receive special training
According to the report, first responders and healthcare professionals should be trained to better understand and manage the psychosocial problems associated with COVID-19. Health systems should pay attention to the level of stress in the people working there and change their tasks and schedules if necessary, researchers from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center report in a press release.
Ask people about their psychological problems and stress
Healthcare workers should ask patients about COVID-19-related stress factors, such as an infected family member and depression or anxiety. Existing psychological pre-existing conditions or conditions should also be considered. Some patients will need a referral for psychiatric care, while other people may just need some help coping with the stress, for example through conversation.
Child stress is often underestimated by parents
Parents often underestimate their children’s stress. Therefore, parents should be encouraged to have open discussions to better respond to their children’s reactions and concerns.
Keep in touch with family and friends electronically
People who are in quarantine at home or in a home should try to contact their loved ones electronically, the researchers advise. As a result of the crisis, many people are actually communicating more with their friends and families than was the case before the pandemic. (as)
Important NOTE:
This article contains general information only and should not be used for self-diagnosis or treatment. He can not substitute a visit at the doctor.
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