Why Mental Health Matters During a Pandemic

Why Mental Health Matters During a Pandemic

A state of well-being in which the individual realizes his or her own abilities, can cope with normal stressors, can work productively and is able to make a contribution to his or her community.

Good mental health → individual is able to enjoy daily life and respect others.

 

 

Factors that affect mental health:

Biological factors
​Psychological factors 
Social factors

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a major impact on our lives. Many challenges can create excessive stress and cause strong emotions. One of the COVID-19 prevention efforts, such as physical distancing, is needed to reduce the spread of COVID-19, but it can make us feel isolated and lonely and can increase stress and anxiety.

Epidemiology of Mental Disorders During a Pandemic

During the COVID-19 pandemic, mental health issues have increased, including suicidal ideation. Stress can be caused by:

1. Following the number of deaths from covid

2. Frequently monitor media reports or social media

3. eeling isolated during quarantine
4. Can't be with loved ones

5. Having financial difficulties

In January 2021, 41% of adults reported experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depressive disorders. In a June 2020 survey, 13% of adults reported increased substance use due to coronavirus-related stress, 11% of adults reported suicidal thoughts in the past 30 days. Suicide rates have been on the rise for a long time and are getting worse due to the pandemic

The Kaiser Family Tracking Health Tracking survey found that many adults reported specific negative impacts on mental health and well-being, namely:

 

1. trouble sleeping (36%)

2. difficulty eating (32%)

3. Increased alcohol consumption or substance use (12%),

4. worsening chronic condition (12%)

5. due to worry and stress due to the corona virus pandemic

Impact of Stress on Health

-Fear, anger, sadness, worry or frustration
-Changes in appetite, energy and interest

-Changes in appetite, energy and interest

-Difficulty sleeping or nightmares

-Headaches, body aches, indigestion, and skin rashes

-Worsening of chronic health problems

-Worsening mental health condition

-Use of tobacco, alcohol and other substances

Things That Affect Mental Health During a Pandemic

1. The occurrence of an economic recession
2. Social distance and isolation factors
3. Trauma to health workers in dealing with COVID-19
4. Stigma and discrimination against COVID-19 sufferers
5. Boredom triggers stress

Vulnerable Group Affected by Mental Disorders due to COVID-19

1. Girls
2. Children and youth
3. Elderly

How to Maintain Mental Health during a Pandemic
1. General Public

a. Remove the stigma of “Covid-19 Cases”

Don't label those who have COVID-19 because even after recovering from COVID-19 their lives will continue with their work, family and loved ones

b. Watch less, read or hear news about COVID-19

-For some people, looking for news about COVID-19 will cause excessive anxiety & stress

-Just look for information from trusted sources 1-2x/day
oLook for information that focuses on how to protect yourself and the loved ones around you

b. Start taking care of yourself

-Do activities to take care of yourself, such as doing relaxation sessions, meditation, and stretching

-Start eating healthier and more balanced
-Exercise regularly and get enough sleep
-Avoid alcohol and cigarettes or the use of other substances

c. Support each other
-Helping others in their time of need can benefit both the person receiving the support and the helper. For example, calling neighbors or people in your community who may need help

d. Tell a positive and hopeful story
-Positive stories from the closest people about each other's experiences dealing with COVID-19
-Stories about the experience of experiencing COVID-19 and having recovered will increase the spirit together in facing the COVID-19 pandemic
-Do what you have always done to get through the hard times
-Take advantage of skills you have used in the past that have helped you manage difficulties, such as listening to music, singing, painting, etc.
-Consultation of health workers
-If you feel overwhelmed in maintaining your mental health, you can try to consult a health worker or counselor if necessary

2. Children and Teenagers

-Helps children to find positive ways to express feelings such as sadness and fear
-Maintain familiar routines in daily life as much as possible
-During times of crisis, children tend to seek more attachment and are more demanding of parents

3. The Elderly
-Looking for new safe ways to stay in touch with family and friends, get support and express feelings
-Maintain health with light physical activity to reduce fatigue, anxiety or sadness

Tips for Managing Work Stress

1. Communicate about your work stress
2. Identify the things you can't control
3. Know the facts about COVID-19
4. Increase your sense of self-control by developing a consistent daily routine
5. Remind yourself that each of us has an important role in fighting this pandemic
6. Remind yourself that everyone is in an unusual situation with limited resources
7. Take a break from watching, reading or listening to news, including social media
8. Connect with other people
9. If abusing alcohol or other drugs (including prescription drugs) as a way to cope, seek help
10. If you are being treated for a mental health condition, continue your treatment and be aware of any new or worsening symptoms

 

Immediately consult your health with dr.Irna Permanasari Gani, Sp.KJ
He is a Psychiatrist at Hermina Pasteur Hospital.