Mental health should be part of COVID-19 response–WHO

Apart from the ballooning COVID-19 cases globally, the World Health Organization (WHO) has also seen an increase in the anxiety people are experiencing.

In a Q&A on COVID-19 and mental health, WHO mental health expert Aiysha Malik said, “it’s really important to think about mental health as a part of the public health response to COVID-19.”

Malik said in emergency situations such as COVID-19, “mental health can decline in the population and that there’s a high rate in mental health conditions.”

“So we’re not just talking about protection from COVID-19, we’re also talking about prevention of stress and fear during this event as well,” Malik added.

With the isolation and quarantine protocols, Malik said the pandemic is also a challenging experience for one’s mental health. 

Malik said majority of the population had not experienced a situation similar to the COVID-19 pandemic, which could be stressful, but she also said, “the strategies in managing stress are the same.”

Malik said WHO advocated social support as “being very good for your mental health.”

Despite the limitations due to the quarantine, Malik said, if possible, people should “keep maintaining your social contacts within reason” and following the health guidance of one’s country.

Malik suggested resorting to digital communication with other people.

“Otherwise, if you have this accessible to you, digital methods of communication or even phone is a really good way to keep maintaining your social contact,” she said.

Malik said they are strongly encouraging people to carry on with strategies they have used in the past that might help them relax and reduce stress and anxiety.

“As long as they are helpful and safe for you. Meditation could be one of those activities and it’s something that they can implement now,” Malik added. – RC, GMA News