How to take care of your mental health during COVD-19 quarantine period
The pandemic Coronavirus Disease 2019 or COVID-19 has the world arrested in fear, and some even with overwhelming stress and anxiety, as cases and deaths continue to rise. In this time of global health crisis, the World Health Organization (WHO) gave valuable advice regarding mental health care.
The WHO addressed that the novel coronavirus disease outbreak is “generating stress in the population” and thus published a document on March 12 titled 'Mental Health and Psychosocial Considerations During COVID-19 Outbreak.'
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In the general population section, WHO reminds everyone to be empathetic and mindful of the affected people by not attaching COVID-19 to any ethnicity or nationality. The statement says, “People who are affected by Covid-19 have not done anything wrong, and they deserve our support, compassion, and kindness.”
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To reduce the stigma, WHO also requested not to refer to people with the disease as “COVID-19 cases”, “victims”, “COVID-19 families”, or the “diseased.” The better way to call them is “people who have COVID-19”, “people who are being treated for COVID19”, or “people who are recovering from COVID-19.”
WHO then emphasized that “Facts can help to minimize fears.” Seek information only from trusted sources and monitor updates on social media at “specific times during the day, once or twice.” Also, minimize consuming (watching, reading, listening) news that you think is causing you stress or triggers your anxiety.
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Being supportive can also help uplift the spirit of others in this time of health crisis. WHO provided an example like “check-in by phone on neighbors or people in your community who may need some extra assistance.”
Furthermore, find an opportunity to share positive and hopeful stories and images of local people who have recovered from COVID-19 or supported a loved one who is still being treated. The heroic role of caretakers and healthcare workers also deserves to be acknowledged and reported to amplify the good side of the events.
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Here are some activities you may consider while under community quarantine:
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SOURCE: https://www.who.int/docs/default-source/coronaviruse/mental-health-considerations.pdf?sfvrsn=6d3578af_8&fbclid=IwAR2HFRwC__GX4HKF5QufevZ8XI1FPqZiFWF5AAvSeNSF2mgUfpX-TWxMTrs