Covid-19 takes a toll on mental health of people

Manmeet Singh Gill

Tribune News Service

Amritsar, May 11

The Covid-induced pandemic has not only affected the physical aspects of life but has had a devastating effect on the mental health of people as they face a constant fear of falling sick and subsequent problems which they may have to face during hospitalisation.

The recent spurt in Covid-19 cases coupled with reports of shortage of oxygen and beds in hospitals has further added to their worries. Though the number of visits to mental health clinics has dropped during the pandemic, experts say that they receive numerous calls regarding various issues.

A school teacher said, “My father is behaving strangely for the last few weeks. Though we take the required precautions and follow all Covid protocols while going outside, he worries a lot.” She said he did not even let them pick newspapers in the morning. “We have to wash vegetables and fruits in detergent,” she said.

Surjit Singh, another resident, said, “I am more worried about children. Every time I go outside, I remove my clothes at the entrance and directly go to washroom for a bath.” He said, “I fear how I would manage if anyone from the family falls sick and has to be hospitalised.”

Satinder Kaur, a college teacher whose father-in-law, mother-in-law and husband have tested positive, said, “My three-year-old son is vulnerable. I cannot sleep at night. I have started taking sleeping pills.” She said the pandemic was affecting people mentally as they are under constant fear.

Sunita Khanna, a mental health expert, said, “People need to stay positive even if they test positive but the shortage of oxygen and beds in hospitals has left them panic-stricken.” Most of them are worried that how would they manage if they or any of their family members falls sick. I receive many calls from my regular clients who either want consultation for them or their relatives or friends.”

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