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Mental Health During COVID-19
- Project Medify
- Aug 31, 2020
- 3 min read
By Marco Fanik
Abstract
COVID-19 was introduced to the world in late 2019. Since then, it has spread like wildfire across the globe. Millions of people have contracted the virus, and a large portion have died from it. However, the virus itself is not the only danger. There have been several negative detriments inflicted upon the physicalities of victims, and even more so, the victims’ mentalities as well.
COVID-19’s Mental Impact
It has been roughly five months since the infamous shelter-in-place lockdown has occurred in America. COVID-19 has placed many American citizens in an unprecedented, perilous era. Schools maintain the opportunity of online education for students, businesses near the line of bankruptcy, and the rising cases have placed many in fear of catching the virus. Near solitude has since been of utmost importance, carrying out social distance protocols by wearing a mask and maintaining a six-feet distance from other individuals. The COVID-19 pandemic is a stressful experience for everyone. Vacationing is heavily restricted, the opportunities to meet friends and family has reduced, and many are in fear that anyone may have the virus. Preserving distance from others reduces the spread of the virus, and it is justifiable to say that this is a stressful and anxious time in global history. It is difficult to adapt to this overwhelming new world, but it is possible to not just cope with the pressure, but to understand and rise from it. By working together and taking precautions, the acclimation to a new normal will reduce tension for self, family, and community benefit.
The Dangers of High Stress
COVID-19 has been a melting pot of constant anxiety; however, this heavy stress can have a negative impact on an individual’s physical health as well. A strong mental toll can stimulate changes in sleep and dietary patterns.
However, a more damaging impact advances from substance abuse. People may resort to drugs and alcohol when they feel depressed or worried. A widespread myth also exists that alcohol can kill the virus. However, according to the World Health Organization, “Consuming alcohol will not destroy the virus, and its consumption is likely to increase the health risks if a person becomes infected with the virus. Alcohol (at a concentration of at least 60% by volume) works as a disinfectant on your skin, but it has no such effect within your system when ingested.” Substance abuse doesn’t provide the body with any protection against COVID-19, They can worsen one’s mental state and add to the prospect of physical impairment. It is pertinent to recognize that alcohol and drugs will not alleviate the spread of COVID-19, and it is best to refrain from using such substances for the safety of oneself and the general public.
Ways to Cope with the Stress
While personal trauma has been common during this pandemic, everyone has different ways to deal with the situation mentally. One can do whatever works for himself to ease his mental state, but there are general measures to aid the prevention of anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic, such as the following:
Refrain from watching the news constantly for updates. Hearing about the virus consistently will instigate more concern. Try to receive information on a regular basis.
Take care of your body. A healthy body creates a healthy mind. Eating healthy and exercising will make one feel better during the troubles of the world. This is also coupled with avoiding alcohol and drug usage.
Occupy yourself. An easy way to not think about the virus is to participate in something else. There are endless possibilities to keep busy, whether it be exercising, drawing, playing a game, or learning a new hobby!
Consult with others. The best way to rid oneself of stress is to recognize others who have the same problems as you. Your friends and family are always there to help you. Make sure to talk , go out (while maintaining social distancing guidelines), or work out with them!
Connect online. Take a look at what’s going on online. Check with any organizations you joined prior to COVID-19. Consider the possibility of joining an online group.
The COVID-19 pandemic has harmed everybody in different ways, whether one has been affected by the virus or the virus has left them in anxiety and isolation. However, the fight against COVID-19 prolongs and can be won.. The best way to tackle this outbreak is to take one baby step at a time, surmounting stress and becoming stronger physically and mentally against the pandemic. As long as one remains cool and collected, no virus in this world will be able to break them down.
Sources
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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 2020. Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). [online]
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