Psychiatrists offer free services to help people beat isolation blues in Karnataka

Kishan Singh Bhorde | TNN | Apr 5, 2020, 11:31 IST

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HUBBALLI: With Covid-19 casting a shadow over the state, several psychiatrists are voluntarily coming forward to help people deal with issue like stress, boredom, depression, anxiety and even obsessive compulsive disorders. They are joining hands with the 104 helpline to counsel anyone in need of help.
“Each psychiatrist will be available as per scheduled slots. So far, 50 to 60 doctors have signed up for the sessions and more are likely to join,” said Dr Sunil Patil, honorary secretary of Indian Psychiatric Society Karnataka Chapter.
Experts say Covid-19 is not the only concern. They warn that if not kept in check, mental illnesses could reach alarming levels during the lockdown period. “The lockdown is triggering anxiety; while some people are worried about job security, others are concerned about markets,” Dr Patil added. Dr Mahesh Desai, director Dharwad Institute of Mental Health And Neurosciences, said counselling was very important. “People are really worried and some of them are experiencing depression and sleep disorder,” he said.
Parents, particularly women, manage chores, office work and children. The kids, meanwhile, are bored. All these lead to anxiety and stress, he said. Recently, a man from Sindhanur, covered in a blanket, consulted me. He was extremely anxious about the possibility of contracting the virus. I explained to him how the disease spreads,” said Dr Alok Kulkarni, a private practitioner from Hubballi.