Corona stress? Reach out for help!

Dr Mangala Borkar

Just like post-traumatic stress disorder that can follow various mishaps, we are now facing a post-Covid stress disorder. Not only post - it is present rather universally, an uneasiness, gloom, anxiety - that is fueled by the media and viral false social media posts that are as bad as, if not worse, than the virus. The bottom line - do not hesitate to seek help-for the virus or its psychological effects.

Dr Vinay Barhale

Sr. Consultant Psychiatrist

Help yourself and others to cope!

·Corona frontline workers, those who have recovered, those who are not infected so far, or whose near ones suffered - everyone is stressed to a variable extent.

·Worry, fear, loneliness, financial difficulties, too much leisure, adjustment problems are adding to anxiety and depression.

·Stress stimulates the brain to affect the pituitary, adrenals to produce hormones that affect the body and mind. This is needed normally in a reasonable amount, as it helps the body to cope. If this becomes excessive, the individual experiences various physical problems like acidity, chest pain, breathlessness, giddiness etc. His depressed state may lead to relationship problems in family and even drive him to suicide.

·Emotional, if needed financial and medical support, is needed.

·Keeping in touch with family and friends by telephone, social media is important.

·8 Hours sleep, regular exercise, yoga, pranayam, meditation, making use of free time, prayers helps.

·Helping at home, outside in whatever way possible keeps one busy, more relaxed.

·Avoid too much exposure to media.

·Do not be afraid to ask for help or support - whether from a friend, relative or even a psychiatrist, if you feel you cannot cope. Even taking medicines after expert guidance, for anxiety or depression, is nothing to be ashamed about.

·Remember, this is a temporary phase. Look at the positive aspects, take proper preventive care and be grateful that one is alive.

Dr Pradeep Deshmukh

Assistant Professor, Psychiatry, GMC Aurangabad

We modify our consulting protocol to accommodate patients

·Lockdown, difficulties in travelling by public transport make it difficult for patients with mental health issues to visit their psychiatrist.

·Normally, medicines are not given without seeing the patient, but in these difficult times, if a caregiver comes with a proper ID, drugs are dispensed.

·We try to speak to patients by video call, counsel and then give medicines to the caregiver.

·There are certain medicines that can be given as injections, their effects can last for 2–4 weeks. (Fluphenazine- we prefer, because it is cheaper, Flupentixol, Risperidone, Paliperidone). This is an option to maintain patients’ who are on treatment.

·Anxiety, depression have increased in this Covid era, but many are unable to reach for help.

·It is important to create awareness about techniques to decrease stress and overcome panic.