Mental Health Today

Mental health has always taken a back seat when compared to physical health. When we define a healthy person, we tend to only look at the absence of any physical health issues. However, WHO rightly describes health as being “a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease” and takes into consideration the whole being. Psychological well-being is an integral part of wholesome health.

The psychological impact of lockdown

Today the world is under threat of a pandemic and necessary measures are being taken by the governments of various nations to control and minimize its spread. The mental or emotional well-being of the people under threat.  is threatened at the same time. The country needs to be locked down to control the spread of the virus. Still, it is also vital that the impact of it on the people be estimated rightly. We cannot ignore the fear, anxiety and insecurities people are facing during these stressful times. If these we do not deal with these issues now, they can have a long-term impact on the lives of people.

Social distancing vs isolating

Social distancing has become the norm of the day. Such a measure is tougher on those who are in their middle ages. The younger generation can cope more effortlessly with this situation. Despite its name, the idea, however, is to distance physically. Physical distancing is, no doubt a necessity right now. Although, it appears as if people are struggling to distinguish between physical and social forms of distancing. People end up isolating themselves and lose contact with others, inadvertently distancing themselves from the social support that they can give and receive during these tough times.

Social media to the rescue

Social media has become a solace for many. Various social media outlets show that people, especially adolescents and young adults, have come up with innovative ways to deal with the situation at hand. Several social media games, challenges, workout and cooking videos, etc. have come up, which serve as ways for people to cope with the situation. Not everyone is comfortable being inside their house all day long. People with severe issues within their family have nowhere to go, and such activities might help them cope with the current situation.

Digital counselling is better than no counselling

There are still those who require more assistance than what is available through social media. This assistance to help cope with and manage their anxiety and stressful thoughts are currently scarce. Counsellors and psychologists have found ways to reach their clients digitally. But the question remains – is digital counselling the same as face-to-face counselling? The answer to this question can be very subjective, differing from one individual to another. However, it is also necessary to adapt to changing times. Therefore most counselling centres and mental health facilities have taken the digital route forward to continue to cater to their clients’ need. Digital counselling is better than no counselling at all.

Hope Trust offers online therapy by clinical psychologists, psychiatrists and counsellors for various issues, such as stress, anxiety, relationship problems and substance abuse.

During these times, taking care of our mental and emotional well-being is as important as safeguarding ourselves from the virus. Don’t hesitate to take the social support you need and reach out to counsellors when needed.

– Trishi Agarwal (Counselling Psychologist: Hope Trust)