Covid & Mental health

The swift spread of COVID-19 has affected day to day life and is slowing down the global economy. This pandemic has affected thousands of peoples, who are either sick or are being killed due to the spread of this disease. Countries are banning gatherings of people to the spread and break the exponential curve. Many countries are locking their population and enforcing strict quarantine to control the spread of the havoc of this highly communicable disease. COVID-19 has rapidly affected our day to day life (health, social and economy), businesses, disrupted the world trade and movements. The schools, colleges and universities has been closed and the classes are being conduct online. This gives out alot of room in the damaging on mental health department. The affect of quarantine is somewhat damaging too. 

Where does the word Quarantine come from?

The practice of quarantine began during the 14th century in order to protect coastal cities from plague epidemics. Ships arriving in Venice from infected ports were required to sit at anchor for 40 days before landing. This practice, called quarantine, was derived from the Italian words quaranta giorni which mean 40 days.

Now many of you would ask How does this quarantine affect your mental health? Although it is the best way to stop this virus from spreading, quarantining is not easy and it has some mental health consequences if we don’t learn how to cope with it. How are you feeling during these long days of quarantine? Are you looking after your mental and physical health? Here’s how quarantine is affecting our mental health.

•Fear and worry about your own health and the health of your loved ones, your financial situation or job, or loss of support services you rely on.

•Changes in sleep or eating patterns.

•Difficulty sleeping or concentrating.

•Worsening of chronic health problems.

•Worsening of mental health conditions.

•Increased use of tobacco, and/or ciggratte and other substances.

Quarantine and Isolation

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, isolation and quarantine help protect the public by preventing exposure to people who have or may have a contagious disease. Most of us are not in isolation, but in quarantine, which means that our movements are restricted, but we may not be sick.

Possible effects of quarantine

How does this quarantine affect your mental health? Considering the effects of past quarantines, we can say that there are some consequences that are quite common. Among them, we can find insomnia, low mood, stress, irritability and confusion. Such feelings are normal given the circumstances. However, there are steps you can take to protect your mental health and well-being while coping with a quarantine.

Recommendations to cope with quarantine

We all know it is not easy to be in quarantine. That’s why we need to take into account some helpful tips to overcome this period successfully.

On the one hand, it is very important to ESTABLISH A PROPER ROUTINE. The reason why we say this is that by establishing a routine you will be much more productive and, therefore, you will feel much better. Also, by doing so, you will maintain your sleeping schedule and this will benefit your general well-being. Try not to go to bed too late, as this will probably make you lose a lot of energy on the following day. On the other hand, you mustn’t forget the importance of PRACTICING OF SPORTS. We all know how beneficial it is, and it is even more important now given the situation we are living in.

DISTRACT YOURSELF by reading or doing something you like and disconnect from the devices for a while. You will notice a sense of tranquility, which will make you feel more relaxed and calm. It is important to be informed, but we have to limit the information, as it can become overwhelming. Also, remember to COMMUNICATE with others and empathize with the suffering of those who are living a difficult time. Last, but not least, remember why we are doing this because it will make you be more committed with the cause.

Take care of yourself and your community

Taking care of your friends and your family can be a stress reliever, but it should be balanced with care for yourself. Helping others cope with their stress, such as by providing social support, can also make your community stronger. During times of increased social distancing, people can still maintain social connections and care for their mental health. Phone calls or video chats can help you and your loved ones feel socially connected, less lonely, or isolated.