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Experts fear Covid-19 playing havoc with mental health

Hailey Chung Wee Kye4 years ago21st Jan 2021News
Covid sabah 150121
Economic uncertainty and loss of income brought on by Covid-19 have led to feelings of fear, anxiety and panic among Malaysians. – The Malaysian Insight pic by Irwan Majid, January 21, 2021.
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MALAYSIANS’ general mental wellbeing is impacted by the double effect of the new movement-control order (MCO) and the emergency in place to contain the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic, said mental health experts.

They told The Malaysian Insight that the uncertainties over the containment of the pandemic as well as the duration of the MCO will affect the public’s wellbeing.

With the state of emergency declared as well, Malaysians would need stability, safety and emotional support to overcome feelings of anxiety and stress.

Kee Joey, founder of Ripple Community, a mental health engagement platform, said the government should convey accurate information about nature of Covid-19 and how the virus is transmitted.

The clinical psychologist told The Malaysian Insight that proper information will increase compliance to standard operating procedure and calm panic and anxiety in the community.

“We have observed that many are not complying with SOP, causing the recent spike in cases.

“I believe that our mental exhaustion has contributed to ‘caution fatigue’ and apathy,” Kee said.

Mental health professionals also said the number of patients struggling with anxiety and depression has increased dramatically and this will continue now with the reimposition of the MCO.

“We are in dire need of manpower to serve more effectively in the field of mental health.

“It is crucial to first prevent burnout and ‘compassion fatigue’ among healthcare workers,” Kee said.

Prolonged isolation can have a debilitating effect on an individual’s mental health, say experts. – The Malaysian Insight file pic, January 21, 2021.

Malaysian Mental Health Association (MMHA) president Dr Andrew Mohanraj said the government can activate mental health civil society groups to help meet current demands.

“Improved access to mental health services, including online and telephone counselling services, will go a long way.

“The government can also help streamline conversations on mental health,” he said.

Lum Khay Xian, a clinical psychologist from the mental health education group, Relate Malaysia, said the mental-health impact could be severe with the uncertainty over how long the MCO will last.

“It is possible to ease or alleviate some stress, provided that the government is able to show Malaysians that it has a robust long-term plan to manage Covid-19,” she said.

Handling grief

Lum also advises the public to stay informed on Covid-19 updates but just once a day.

“Adhere to the SOP, establish a routine, remind yourself that everyone is in an unusual situation with limited resources.

“Identify and accept those things which you do not have control over.”

Patients who have tested positive for Covid-19 may experience a sense of guilt and fear over their state of health and worry about the people around them, she added.

“There may also be an increase in the number of people who are struggling with the loss of a loved one from Covid-19, which can be overwhelming.”

During this pandemic, coping with sorrow is difficult, said the experts.

“Particularly, in the way we grieve. How we conduct funeral services during this time has changed,” Lum said, recommended exploring new ways to mourn.

“Develop a virtual memory book, blog, or webpage to remember your loved one and ask family and friends to contribute their memories and stories.

“Host conference calls with family members and friends to stay connected,” Lum said.

Andrew from MMHA said it is important to recognise the silver lining in this pandemic.

“We can be grateful that things have not become as bad as in other countries.” – January 21, 2021.

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