Depression pandemic and Covid 19 : 5 ways to stay upbeat in an atmosphere of fear

Depression pandemic and other mental health issues, are peaking in the COVID era. Here are #5 ways to stay upbeat in an atmosphere of fear through which you can overcome depression resulting from the drastic changes in lifestyle.

- Dr. Preetika Chandna

The COVID - 19 pandemic has created massive economic and social changes and the very fabric of our daily life stands altered. Unfortunately, the widespread apprehension that surrounds us has also taken a toll on the mental health of many of us. Depression or feeling sad often is a common side effect of the COVID pandemic that many are experiencing. Mental health issues, especially depression, are peaking in the COVID era. This has been proven by recent studies by researchers globally.

The International Labour Organisation published the results of a 2020 study. The global study says that one in two youths worldwide is prone to depression and anxiety in COVID times. Further, another recent 2020 scientific study studied the prevalence and impact of depression from January of this year. The study reported that depression had increased 25 times from 2017 among the general population. The depression rates during the COVID pandemic were higher than the levels than during the SARS and Ebola epidemics.

What is Depression?

Depression is characterized by all or some of the following signs symptoms for most of the time, every day and lasting for at least two weeks or more:

Feelings of irritability, sadness

Feeling hopeless or worthless

Difficulty in sleeping

Over-eating or not feeling hungry

Loss or increase in weight

Difficulty in concentration

Loss of interest in daily tasks

Reduced or lack of a sense of enjoyment in life

Thoughts of harming oneself

Headaches, muscle aches, or digestive problems