Psychological Problems Becoming Viral due to the Virus – Current Scenario in India

Abstract

Background: Psychological health is a neglected health issue globally. Bereavement, isolation, loss of income and fear are triggering factors for disrupting mental well-being during COVID 19 pandemic.Aim: To assess impact of COVID 19 pandemic on psychological health status of general population in India.Methods: A descriptive study was conducted using questionnaire prepared through Google forms. A nonprobability snowball sampling was used. Results: We received 2131 responses of which,42.3% of the population were frustrated due to the pandemic. 27.8% of the participants had negative and suicidal thoughts. 64.1% of the participants were frustrated due to social isolation from colleagues and peers. 44.4% of the participants feared job insecurity. Majority of the males and females (58.8% and 53.3%) were going to work against their will. 43.5% in the age group of 18-30 years were more frustrated. 58.6% of healthcare workers were separated from their loved ones and 60.1% suffered from anorexia nervosa. 56.2% of the total participants did nothing specific to combat frustration.78% of the stressed respondents opined that stress-relief programs, online psychological health counseling is need of the hour in the pandemic period. Conclusion: COVID 19 pandemic has led to panic and anxiety amongst the public globally and affected them psychologically. Government aided online psychological health counseling programs, motivational and awareness programs would prove to be reliable tools to combat psychological health problems in general public.