Abstract

PSYCHOLOGICAL IMPACT OF COVID-19 ON GLOBAL MENTAL HEALTH

Hima Santhosh*, Sowparnika Treasa Sabu and Shaiju S. Dharan

Abstract

Background: An alarming situation of socioeconomic crisis and acute psychological distress has occurred globally due to the rapid emergence and spread of the Coronavirus disease (COVID-19). In public mental health terms, the main psychological impact to date is elevated rates of stress or anxiety. But as new measures and impacts are introduced – especially quarantine and its effects on people’s usual activities, routines or livelihoods – levels of loneliness, depression, harmful alcohol and drug use, and self-harm or suicidal behaviour are also expected to rise. In addition to all the strategic measures employed to contain the disease, added tactics are required to handle the related mental health issues. Methods: Previously published articles regarding the relation of mental health with the COVID-19 outbreak and other previous global pandemics have been collected and reviewed. Observations: There has been a profound increase in the pandemic associated mental health issues with the increasing number of cases reported worldwide. The implementation of strict quarantine measures has kept a large number of people in isolation, thus paving way to psychological stress, symptoms of mental illness and suicidal thoughts. It is necessary to develop strategies for reducing psychological distress and promoting healthy behaviours to deal with the current distress situation.

Keywords: COVID-19, Coronavirus, mental health, stress, anxiety.