By Dr Kedar Tilwe
It has been over 10 months since the pandemic hit our shores and we are slowly limping back to normalcy – although in a new form. By now, many of us must have experienced COVID19 or have had someone close who has been impacted by it, and all of us have been subject to some sort of stress associated with it. This is especially true for those who have had a close experience of the illness and its affects. It is mainly because of the nature of the illness, quarantine requirements and relatively long convalescence period; the impact of COVID19 on patients has taken a huge mental toll.
Help provided by support groups like family and friends is crucial in making the road to recovering from the infection smoother. So, let’s take a look at some measures that can be taken to help loved ones recuperate faster from the illness:
- The stigma associated with COVID19 can be a cause for concern, especially as the person may blame themselves for being the point source of spread and possible exposure for other loved ones. Constant reassurance and patience need to be shown when dealing with such a situation. Focus on recovery rather than the cause/ source of the infection
- The daily routine activities can also be one of the areas of difficulty for a person recovering from moderate to severe form of the illness; especially on the account of the fatigue produced by it. Helping them deal with their daily chores not only allows the person to get much needed physical rest but also is a gesture of mental assurance and support
- Anxiety is frequently being seen in patients recovering from the illness. Causes of which can vary from the social distancing norms in place for care, fear of progression of the illness, fear of infecting others, worries about the future, and sense of being a burden on the family. Having an open discussion with your loved ones, talking about their anxieties, and helping them cope through relaxation exercises or mindfulness practices can help in this regard
- Major psychiatric disorders such as depression and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) may also get precipitated due to the stress associated with the diagnosis and the unfamiliar experience during admission and treatment. Helping them identify and adapt to these situations is perhaps one of the most important roles that you will play as a caregiver. If needed you can also seek the help of a mental health professional nearby
- The unpredictable nature of the illness and the diverse nature of complications can also be a source of constant worry for the patient. Helping them distract their mind as well as helping them filter and limit the flow of information to an authentic and accurate source can help reduce unnecessary rumination of negative thoughts and worries.
One thing we really need to remember is to reach out for help, if you yourself, or a loved one are experiencing stress or anxiety – speaking to a confidant, your partner and your mental health expert is the right way to go.
About the Author
Dr Kedar Tilwe, is the Consultant Psychiatrist, Fortis Hospital, Mulund & Hiranandani Hospital, Vashi – A Fortis Network Hospital
