Overview

The aftermath of the COVID-19 outbreak has been different for everyone. The pandemic has changed the lives of millions globally. From following the Covid-19 protocols to the loss of a dear and loved one, or being isolated with chronic stress, the psychological impact on mental health can be hard to overcome. Managing mental health and psychosocial well-being during the pandemic is as important as managing physical health.

Fawad Shah, a Mental Health Professional, explains that the pandemic has affected the mental health of millions of people leading to depression and anxiety. He describes how we can manage and transition safely and smoothly into the new normal.

Symptoms of Mild Depression

The pandemic has resulted in worsening mental health due to long periods of isolation, loneliness, unemployment, financial stressors, and the loss of loved ones. Young and older adults may become more anxious, angry, stressed, agitated and withdrawn while in quarantine. Fawad says,” Men and women perceive anger differently, they experience and handle
feelings of frustration and rage in different ways”. In general, men are outwardly aggressive and are considered indignant, while women exhibit indirect ways of expressing anger like they become quieter and disconnect themselves from the environment for a while.  

People with mild depression may have feelings of sadness, loss of appetite, sleeping problems, reduced energy levels and difficulty in concentrating. More signs and symptoms include:

• restlessness and fidgetiness
• abnormally quiet
• maintaining distance
• feeling unusually tired
• feeling hopeless
• feeling unmotivated
• wanting to be left alone
• having unexplained, minor aches and pains
• losing empathy with others
• moving or talking slowly
• thinking about death or suicide

Similar symptoms can be found in children who experience mild to moderate depression due to the pandemic. While children missed being in school, they had poor routines, loss of appetite and sleeping problems. Children had less social interaction with friends and family members.  Other symptoms might include becoming withdrawn or quieter, less active and losing interest.

How to Deal with Depression?

Fawad Shah elaborates the SEEDS model which includes the five essential factors for a healthy lifestyle. Following this lifestyle will give better mental health and lead to content and satisfaction in life.

S-    SocialConnectivity: “The more you socialize, the better you feel”. Staying connected with positive people is good for mental health.

E -    Exercise: Regular exercise is the best natural antidepressant and anti-anxiety agent.

E -    Education: Learning something new each day keeps the brain active and enhances cognitive functioning.

D -    Diet: Having a balanced and nutritious diet helps to stay healthy and strong.

S -    Sleep: Good sleep hygiene practices reduce anxiety and depression.

For children, it is important to find positive ways to express feelings of fear and sadness. Engaging them in different creative activities, such as playing or drawing can help them to relieve stress and anxiety.

When to See a Therapist

If someone is having depression and anxiety for a prolonged period, such as more than three to four weeks and day-to-day activities are getting affected, then it is time to reach out to a mental Health professional. The doctor/practitioner will help to manage the symptoms through a combination of therapy and medication, as required. It is important to be open and honest to the doctor to make them understand what is happening and get a clear picture of the feelings.

Takeaway

The pandemic is here to stay with long-term psychological effects on our lives. Dealing with depression is not easy but applying some coping mechanisms such as eating healthy, engaging in physical activity, meditating, and staying in contact with family and friends is essential for optimal mental health. Talking to a professional or writing thoughts in a diary can help shift the perspective and assist in managing the symptoms of depression and anxiety.

To book an online or physical appointment with our therapist Fawad Shah, click on the link https://www.shifaam.com/doctors/karachi/psychotherapist/fawad-shah-10850 or visit FIND A THERAPIST tab on www.shifaam.com or download the Shifaam HealthApp now from Google Play(bit.ly/2JqZo3C) or the iOS App Store (apple.co/2QUVxQz) to book a session today!

Take care of your mental health!