The Psychological and Social Effects of COVID-19 Outbreak and its Coping Strategies: An Overview and Personal Reflections (original) (raw)

2020, Psychology and Psychotherapy Research Study

An Overview Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious respiratory disease caused by a newly discovered coronavirus. The virus mainly spreads through saliva drops or nasal secretions [1,2]. In addition to the negative effect of the virus on a person's health, it also has psychological effects, as these effects vary according to several factors, which are linked to the psychological and personal characteristics of the person and the effect of others surrounding the person, environmental conditions and health protection factors. The rapid spread of the COVID-19 pandemic in the world has caused a great degree of fear and anxiety in the population in general and among certain groups in particular, such as the elderly, caregivers and people with underlying health conditions. Perhaps the most prominent effect is the high levels of tension or anxiety. Also, measures and effects may lead to quarantine, which may lead to high levels of loneliness, depression, alcohol and harmful drug use, self-harm or suicidal behavior [3]. Public health measures, such as social distance, can make people feel isolated and lonely and this may be one of the causes of stress, anxiety and sadness. Stress during a virus outbreak can also cause fear and concern for personal and other people's health, financial situation or job, or loss of support services. In addition to changes in sleep habits, eating or interests' patterns, exacerbation of chronic health problems and mental health conditions, and increased use of tobacco and/or alcohol [4]. However, Güzel P [5] indicated that the virus caused emotional and psycho-social effects on people who stay at home for some time due to the measures taken to prevent the spread of COVID-19 epidemic. Hagerty & Williams [6] noted that the crisis of COVID-19 greatly threatens our basic human need for human communication, which may act as an environmental factor affecting biological, behavioral, and environmental aspects, and this reflects the negative impact on mental health. Furthermore, Serafini et al. [7] reported that COVI19 led to socioeconomic crises and psychological disorders of varying types and severity. Vindegaard & Benros [8] emphasized the need for research to assess direct neuropsychiatric consequences and indirect effects on mental health to improve treatment and plan mental health care and preventive measures during possible subsequent epidemics. Also, Talton [9] discussed tips to help achieve mental health such as staying in touch, busy,