Impact Of Covid 19 On Mental Illness And Its Homoeopathic Management

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on mental health worldwide. The pandemic has caused stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues for many people, including those who have contracted the virus and those who have not. The pandemic has caused a range of mental health challenges, including social isolation, fear of getting infected, job loss or financial insecurity, home-schooling and caregiving responsibilities, and the uncertainty and constant changes in the pandemic's trajectory.

Research has also shown that the pandemic has had a disproportionate impact on vulnerable populations, including people of colour, low-income individuals, frontline workers, and people with pre-existing mental health conditions. The pandemic has also led to a surge in demand for mental health services, with many mental health professionals reporting higher caseloads and longer wait times for appointments. It Is essential to prioritize mental health during and after the pandemic, both for individuals and communities as a whole.

There are many reasons for mental illness post COVID 19 but here are some major reasons:

1. Isolation and Social Distancing

2. Financial Insecurity

3. Fear of Contracting the Virus

4. Increase Workload for Essential Workers

1. Isolation and Social Distancing

Social isolation and physical distancing measures implemented to slow the spread of COVID-19 have had a profound impact on mental health. One of the most significant impacts of social isolation and distancing has been the increased feelings of loneliness, which can lead to depression and anxiety. These disruptions to routine and increased stress can lead to symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Children and adolescents are also particularly vulnerable to the negative effects of social isolation and distancing. The Impact of isolation and social distancing on mental health has been significant in India, as the country has been severely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to a study published in the Journal of Psychosocial Research and Mental Health, the prevalence of anxiety and depression symptoms among Indians during the COVID-19 pandemic was significantly higher than before the pandemic. 9% of respondents reported moderate-to-severe anxiety symptoms, and 60. The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a surge in demand for mental health services in India.

 

According to a study published in the Indian Journal of Psychiatry, healthcare professionals in India reported high levels of stress, anxiety, and depression during the pandemic. The study found that 43% of healthcare professionals reported symptoms of anxiety, and 50% reported symptoms of depression.

2. Financial Insecurity

For individuals who have lost their jobs or suffered pay cuts, financial insecurity can lead to a loss of self-esteem and a sense of failure. There is a growing body of research that shows the significant impact of financial insecurity on mental health in India during COVID-19. According to a survey conducted by the Indian Psychiatry Society in August 2020, over 60% of the respondents reported experiencing anxiety and depression during the pandemic, with financial stress being a significant contributor.

A survey conducted by the Indian Society of Labour Economics in April 2020 found that over 90% of informal sector workers in India had lost their jobs or suffered reduced earnings during the pandemic. The survey also found that the loss of livelihoods was causing significant stress and anxiety among these workers, with many reporting feeling helpless and hopeless about their future prospects.

A study conducted by the All India Institute of Medical Sciences in May 2020 found that the pandemic had led to an increase in the prevalence of mental health disorders in India, with financial insecurity being one of the major contributors.

A study published In the Journal of Public Health in October 2020 found that the pandemic had led to an increase in the prevalence of anxiety and depression among the Indian population, with those who had lost their jobs or suffered pay cuts being particularly vulnerable.

According to a survey conducted by the National Institute Mental Health and Neurosciences in July 2020, the pandemic had led to an increase in the number of calls to mental health helplines in India, with financial insecurity being a major concern among the callers.

3. Fear of Contracting the Virus

The fear of contracting the virus can lead to the development of obsessive-compulsive behaviours, such as excessive hand-washing or cleaning, that are aimed at reducing the risk of infection. For individuals who have been infected with the virus or have lost loved ones to the disease, the fear of contracting the virus can lead to the development of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.

A survey conducted by the Indian Psychiatry Society found that the COVID-19 pandemic has led to an increase in anxiety and depression levels among Indians. The survey found that nearly 20% of the respondents reported experiencing anxiety and depression symptoms, which they attributed to the fear of contracting the virus.

According to the Indian Council of Medical Research , there has been a significant increase in the number of mental health cases reported in India during the pandemic. The ICMR reported that there has been a 20% increase in mental health cases in the country since the outbreak of the pandemic.

A study conducted by the Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine found that the COVID-19 pandemic has led to an increase in the number of panic attacks experienced by individuals. 8% of the respondents reported experiencing panic attacks related to the fear of contracting the virus.

The COVID-19 pandemic has also led to an increase in the number of individuals displaying obsessive-compulsive behaviours, according to a study published in the Journal of Psychosocial Research. The study found that nearly 16% of the respondents reported engaging in obsessive-compulsive behaviours such as excessive hand-washing and cleaning, which they attributed to the fear of contracting the virus.

According to a study published in the Asian Journal of Psychiatry, the COVID-19 pandemic has led to an increase in the number of cases of post-traumatic stress disorder among individuals who have been infected with the virus or have lost loved ones to the disease. The study found that nearly 30% of the respondents reported experiencing symptoms of PTSD related to the pandemic.

4. Increased Workload for Essential Workers:

The fear of contracting the virus and the stress of working in a high-pressure environment can contribute to anxiety and depression among essential workers. Essential workers are often stigmatized and discriminated against due to their increased risk of exposure to the virus. The increased workload of essential workers during the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on their mental health. Essential workers are at higher risk of burnout, trauma, anxiety, depression, stigma and discrimination, and financial stress. Several studies have investigated the impact of increased workload on the mental health of essential workers in India during the COVID-19 pandemic.

A survey conducted by the Indian Psychiatry Society in 2020 found that healthcare workers in India had high rates of anxiety, stress, and depression due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

A study published In the Indian Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine in 2020 surveyed 450 healthcare workers in India and found that 52. 2% of them reported high levels of burnout, while a study published In the Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine in 2020 surveyed 409 healthcare workers in India and found that 49. 6% of them reported symptoms of anxiety, while 44. 5% reported symptoms of depression.

A study published In the Journal of Neurosciences in Rural Practice in 2021 surveyed 105 healthcare workers in a rural area of India and found that 77. 7% reporting symptoms of anxiety.

How To Cope Up With Mental Illness Due To COVID 19 ?

1. Although we may not be able to physically see our loved ones, it’s important to stay connected with them. You can call, text, or video chat with friends and family to maintain social connections.

2. Engage in regular exercise and eat healthy to maintain good physical health. This can have a positive impact on your mental health as well.

3. Meditation, deep breathing exercises, and yoga can help reduce stress and anxiety.

4. Engage in activities that bring you joy and help you relax. This could be anything from reading, listening to music, gardening, or cooking.

5. It’s important to stay informed about the situation, but too much news intake can cause anxiety and stress. Limit your exposure to news and social media.

6. If you find yourself struggling with anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues, don’t hesitate to seek professional help from a therapist or mental health professional.

7. Creating a budget is the first step to manage finances and reduce financial stress.

8. It is essential to seek professional financial advice to manage finances effectively.

9. Availing government schemes: The government of India has launched various schemes to support those affected by the pandemic financially. Availing such schemes such as the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana, Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyaan, and Jan Dhan Yojana can help alleviate financial insecurity.

10. Setting realistic goals and expectations for work can help manage stress and prevent burnout. It is important to prioritize tasks and delegate responsibilities when possible.

11. Essential workers can manage their workload by practicing effective time management skills, such as making a to-do list, prioritizing tasks, and breaking down larger tasks into smaller, more manageable ones.

The pandemic has brought mental health to the forefront, highlighting the need for support and awareness. It is important to prioritize mental health during this time and to support those who are struggling. This can be done by spreading awareness of mental health resources, advocating for mental health services, and providing support to those who are experiencing mental health problems. By working together, we can help mitigate the impact of the pandemic on mental health and promote well-being for all.

Homoeopathic Management of Mental Illness due to COVID 19

Homoeopathy is a form of alternative medicine that uses natural substances to stimulate the body’s healing processes. It is based on the principle of “like cures like,” which means that a substance that causes symptoms in a healthy person can be used to treat similar symptoms in a sick person. Homoeopathy is a holistic approach to health that takes into account the physical, emotional, and mental aspects of a person.

Here are some medicine use to treat mental issues:

1. Ignatia Amara: 

This remedy is commonly used to treat emotional distress, grief, and depression resulting from a loss or disappointment. After COVID-19, individuals may experience grief or loss due to the death of a loved one, financial insecurity, or changes in lifestyle.

2. Natrum Muriaticum: 

This remedy is often used to treat depression, especially when the individual experiences a sense of grief or loss, such as after a relationship breakup or the loss of a loved one. After COVID-19, individuals may experience feelings of isolation, loneliness, or loss of social connections.

3. Nux Vomica: 

This remedy is traditionally used to treat anxiety, stress, and irritability resulting from overwork or unhealthy lifestyle choices. After COVID-19, individuals may experience stress, anxiety, and burnout due to work-related issues or changes in lifestyle.

4. Kali Phosphoricum: 

This remedy is often used to treat mental and physical fatigue, weakness, and depression. After COVID-19, individuals may experience fatigue and weakness due to physical or emotional stress, illness, or prolonged isolation.

5. Phosphorus: 

This remedy is traditionally used to treat anxiety, fear, and restlessness. After COVID-19, individuals may experience fear or anxiety related to health concerns, financial uncertainty, or social isolation.

6. Arsenicum Album: 

This remedy is often used to treat anxiety, restlessness, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). After COVID-19, individuals may experience fear of infection, fear of death, or fear of being in crowded places.

7. Lycopodium: 

This remedy is traditionally used to treat anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. After COVID-19, individuals may experience low self-esteem due to job loss, financial insecurity, or changes in lifestyle.

8. Staphysagria: 

This remedy is often used to treat anger, resentment, and suppressed emotions. After COVID-19, individuals may experience anger or resentment towards government policies, social distancing measures, or changes in lifestyle.

9. Sepia: 

This remedy is traditionally used to treat depression, irritability, and mood swings in women. After COVID-19, women may experience postpartum depression, PMS, or menopausal symptoms due to stress, isolation, or changes in lifestyle.

10. Aurum Metallicum: 

This remedy is often used to treat depression, anxiety, and emotional instability. After COVID-19, individuals may experience depression or anxiety related to job loss, financial insecurity, or changes in lifestyle.