Last January 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) proclaimed COVID-19, a new coronavirus disease as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. From its first case last December 31, 2019, in Wuhan, China, the virus easily spread to other countries around the world.
In March 2020, WHO made an evaluation concluding COVID-19 as a pandemic. With an estimated total of 2.48 million cases, the disease outbreak pesters the livelihood and well-being of the population. The stay-at-home policy has enforced changes in our routine. Everything that we used to find customary, like going for a jog and traveling to work seems to be out of reach in this time of crisis. With that being said, it triggers emotional and mental distress to almost everyone, even to those without pre-existing mental conditions.
The WHO Department of Health and Substance Use acknowledges that we need to guard our psychosocial health more than ever. In support of this, the WHO Department of Health and Substance Use presented considerations to support mental and psychosocial health in different target groups during this time of the pandemic.
1. For the general population
It is important that while we are taking care of our general health, we also show empathy towards other people. Do not attach any particular ethnicity or nationality when referring to the virus. Those affected by COVID-19 are not to blame in this situation. If anything, they deserve support and compassion from us. In order to reduce stigma, do not refer to “people who have COVID-19” as “victims”, “COVID-19 cases, or “the disease”. Separate the person from an identity defined by COVID-19 because once they are recovered, their life will go in with their loved ones, friends, and jobs.
It’s okay to take a break from the news if it causes you anxiety. Get the facts only from trusted sources, as rumors and misinformation only trigger anxiety and fear. Protect yourself and those who are in need. It takes a little effort to check in on friends and neighbors through social media. You can ask them if they need some extra assistance. Working together solidarily is a big help in addressing the pandemic.
Moreover, honor the frontliners— including health care workers and police officers— and their sacrifices. Acknowledge the big role they play in order to keep our community safe. You can help them by simply spreading positive images of people who have recovered or news of the people who donated, no matter how big or small.
2. For healthcare workers
It is normal to feel under pressure during this situation. Guarding your mental and psychosocial health is just as important as guarding your physical health. Use healthy coping strategies as a recourse to fight off stress. Take sufficient rest, eat healthy food, engage in physical activity, and contact your family and loved ones.
Provide support to those affected by COVID-19, especially those who require mental health and psychosocial support. Link them with available resources. The mhGAP Humanitarian Intervention Guide is designed for use by general healthcare workers which provides clinical guidance for addressing mental health conditions.
3. For team leaders or managers in health facilities
The staff needs better mental and physical capacity in order to fulfill their roles. Ensure them good quality communication and accurate information. Rotate their tasks and partner inexperienced workers with more experienced colleagues. Establish a buddy system for them so that they can provide support and reinforce safety procedures with each other.
Try to be as considerate of their needs. Encourage and monitor work breaks. Ensure that the staff is aware of how they can access mental health support services.
Secure the availability of essential medications at all levels of health care. People with long-term mental health conditions need uninterrupted access to such medications; discontinuation of medication is highly discouraged.
4. For carers of children
Children are prone to mental distress too. Help them find positive ways to express feelings of fear and sadness. Let them engage in age-appropriate activities, such as drawing or reading a book. Children feel relieved when they are able to express their feelings vocally.
During this time of stress, children may seek more attention and demands from their parents. Discuss COVID-19 matters with your children in an honest and age-appropriate way. You must also address the issue together to help ease their anxiety.
5. For older adults, people with underlying health conditions, and their carers
Older adults, especially those with dementia may become more agitated, easily angry, and anxious while in quarantine. You must provide them with emotional support and further understanding they need through their families and health professionals. Give them simple and clear facts on how to reduce the risk of infection in words they can understand.
If you have an underlying condition, be sure that the medications you are using are accessible. Activate your social contacts if you need someone to provide you with assistance. Keep regular routines, including regular exercising, cleaning, or reading to maintain mental stability and reduce boredom.
6. For people in isolation
Keep in touch with your social networks through social media. Pay attention to your needs and feelings by engaging in healthy activities that you find relaxing. Exercise regularly and get enough sleep to keep things in perspective.
Stay informed with the latest information from WHO on where COVID-19 is spreading through this link.