PATNA: The second wave of Covid pandemic has led to revival of uncertainties and apprehensions among people. Experts have, however, suggested that despite the threat, keeping a positive mindset would go a long way in overcoming difficult times.
Vidhya Nair, a Delhi-based psychologist and holistic doctor, said the pandemic has taken a toll on mental health of many people.
“Various psycho-social factors, such as economic hardship, personal losses, lockdown, job insecurity and constant media barrage about the pandemic have affected people of different age groups. Most common conditions, such as anxiety, nervousness and feeling of hopelessness are triggered by fear of infecting other family members, physical distancing, loneliness, prolonged quarantine and confinement at home,” she said.
Nair added learning to cope with stress and accepting the situation are the best possible ways to stay positive under the current circumstances. “People should also maintain personal hygiene,” she added.
Dr Binda Singh, a city-based clinical psychologist, said though following Covid-appropriate behaviour is necessary, one should not be obsessed about it. “Excessive disinfection, hand washing, constant fear of catching virus and nervousness over slightest misconduct indicate an obsession which should be avoided,” she said.
Mental health experts said lack of face-to-face interactions for elderly, disruption of healthy work life balance due to remote work for young adults and online classes for children are the major problems.
Vinay Kumar, a psychotherapist, said maintaining distance from negative people is important for everyone, especially homemakers. “Taking a step back from household chores and reflecting on personal health is important for homemakers,” he said.