Psychological impact of the pandemic of covid-19

Abstract

The pandemic of covid -19, caused by the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Corona Virus 2(SARS-CoV-2) is not just a grave physical health crisis but it has caused significant mental health issues as well. The aim of this paper is to assess the psychological impact of the pandemic of COVID-19. In order to reduce the community transmission of the disease, countries across the world imposed lockdowns, schools were closed, infected people were isolated and other strict measures were taken to ensure social and physical distancing. These measures induced stress, anxiety tension and depression in communities. As a result lot of people developed depression, mood alterations, irritability, insomnia, posttraumatic stress disorder and emotional exhaustion. A number of mental health supporting strategies need to be adopted to reduce the psychological impact of COVID19 pandemic. Some of these strategies include providing psychological support in form of tele psychotherapy, keeping away from mis- information, engaging in physical activity, chanting, yoga and meditation etc. Vulnerable population such as elderly people especially those who are staying alone and those already suffering from preexisting mental disorder should have access to psychologists.