The emotional and psycho-social consequences of coronavirus disease-19 pandemic – A glimpse into the post-pandemic society

Abstract

The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has swept across the globe so devastatingly causing high morbidity and mortality and has brought in its wake, not only social and economic problems but also a myriad of psychological problems which if not addressed properly may contribute considerably to a significant loss of productivity in the society. As per the saying “A sound mind in a sound body,” physical and mental health is equally important and interdependent on each other. In the present scenario, unfortunately, with people suffering from physical illnesses, as well as devastating mental sequelae of the pandemic has resulted in social, financial, economic, and emotional uncertainties. Therefore, it is most important to identify and to treat the mental health problems faced by general population, quarantined people, health-care professionals, at-risk-groups, and the victims of COVID-19 pandemic. The mental health problems can be in the form of depressive disorders, various anxiety disorders, stress related disorders, suicide and intentional self-harm, grief reaction, substance abuse (alcohol, tobacco, cannabis, and opioids), and domestic violence. Although, limited resources available to us during these difficult times, this should not dissuade us from ensuring optimal mental health and trying to keep the struggling humanities “sane” during this pandemic. These resources must be used judiciously and appropriately, with necessary modifications (telephonic/audio-video consultations and counseling) to prepare a society which can move forward in the post pandemic era.