Managing Mental Health in Pandemic COVID-19 and Movement Control Order.

Jamilah Hanum Abdul Khaiyom

doi:10.21315/mjms2020.27.4.14

Abstract

COVID-19 and the Movement Control Order (MCO) may trigger a ‘next wave’ of mental health problems. However, the relationship is not linear. Human psychology also has an impact on the outbreak. Thus, proper strategies to manage human psychology, especially mental health, is very important to break the vicious cycle. This article aims to discuss ways to manage mental health using cognitive-behavioural approaches, mindfulness and spirituality. Specific cognitive-behavioural and mindfulness strategies are listed and suggestions to return to the foundation of human existence are discussed. By practising the cognitive-behavioural, mindfulness, and spirituality strategies described, we may enhance our acceptance, optimism and commitment to prepare for a ‘new or renewed normal’.

Highlights

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) — an originally pneumonia of unidentified cause was first detected in Wuhan, China
About a month from it was first reported, the World Health Organization (WHO) on 30th January 2020 has declared the outbreak as a public health emergency of international concern
To relate to the current situation, if people think that the virus is like other flu viruses and is not harmful, they may not feel cautious and decide not to cover their mouths while coughing, wash their hands regularly, and comply with the physical distancing and the observation of Movement Control Order (MCO) regulations

Summary

Introduction

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) — an originally pneumonia of unidentified cause was first detected in Wuhan, China. To relate to the current situation, if people think that the virus (i.e. severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 – SARS-CoV-2) is like other flu viruses and is not harmful, they may not feel cautious and decide not to cover their mouths while coughing, wash their hands regularly, and comply with the physical distancing and the observation of MCO regulations.

Objectives

Results

Conclusion