Port Blair, Aug 07: WHO has declared the outbreak of COVID-19 as a pandemic. The COVID-19 outbreak and social distancing has led to social isolation, anxiety, fear of contagion, uncertainty and economic difficulties which have led to development or exacerbation of stress related disorders and suicide, particularly in individuals with pre-existing psychiatric disorders, low resilience or whose family member or friend has died of COVID-19.
COVID-19 survivors are at an elevated suicide risk. Stressful experiences such as learning about the diagnosis of COVID-19, fear of infecting others, symptoms of the illness, hospitalization and loss of income may lead to the development of anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. Neurological disorders such as headache and seizure are also associated with suicidal behavior.
This is the time when we need to take charge of ourselves and be a support for our family, co-workers and our community by focusing on the positives. These Islands have a close knit social system, strong family ties and excellent health infrastructure. Apart from the ‘102’ Helpline of Health Department, telemedicine services are being provided by the specialists of GB Pant Hospital.
Social Welfare Department, A & N Administration is committed to providing all necessary assistance to any person suffering from anxiety, depression and distress. The One Stop Centre/Women’s Helpline under Department of Social Welfare have trained counselors available 24*7 to provide counseling services and other necessary support. One Stop Centres are functional in all the 3 Districts and they can be contacted as detailed below:
| Scheme Name | Address | Name of Contact
Person |
Mobile/Landline No. |
| One Stop Centre, South Andaman District | Junglighat, Near Ayush Hospital | Ms. Sunanda Counselor | 03192-234221
9840762492 |
| One Stop Centre, North & Middle Andaman | Old DRDA Office, near State Library Mayabunder | Ms. Hemalata, Counselor | 03192-273009
9531860556 |
| One Stop Centre, Nicobar District | Perka Headquarter, Car Nicobar | Smti. jeevanti Kujur | 03192-265121
9531856023
|
| Women’s
Helpline-181 |
Junglighat, Near Ayush Hospital | Smti. Vijayalaxmi Senior Call Repondent | 181
9775660749 |
The Anganwadi Workers have also been sensitized to identify persons with mental distress. Persons in need of psychological succor may get in touch with their area Anganwadi Worker and thereafter, the Social Welfare Department will render all necessary assistance to such persons.
To reduce suicides during COVID-19, it is imperative to decrease stress, anxiety, fear and loneliness. The red flags signs of suicidality include:-
- Worsening of pre-existing symptoms related to stress, anxiety or depression.
- Constant obsessive, intrusive thoughts that cannot be controlled or stopped with regards to the virus, like contracting it, getting quarantined, spreading it to others, fear of self or loved ones dying and anxiety about not having access to investigations or treatment.
- Severe anxiety symptoms like palpitations, difficulty in breathing or breathlessness, chest pain, headache, blurred vision or tremors.
- Feeling of helplessness, hopelessness, worthlessness and mental fatigue.
What can help:
- Remember that this is a temporary period of isolation to slow the spread of the virus. There are teams of professionals trying to fight this out.
- Stay connected with friends, family and colleagues via email, social media, video conferencing or telephone.
- Engage in healthy activities that one enjoys and finds relaxing. Listen to music, draw or paint, do yoga or mediate regularly, pursue a hobby, read or write.
- Maintain a regular sleep routine, eat healthy foods and maintain a balanced diet. Avoid binge-eating.
- For those working from home, try to maintain a healthy balance by allocating specific work hours, taking regular breaks and establishing a schedule.
- Avoid obsessively watching disturbing news and social media.
- Establish a routine as best as possible and try to see this period as a new experience that can bring health benefits.
- Do not feel helpless or hopeless about this situation and do reach out for mental health assistance if needed.
- Be physically active. Do simple indoor exercises that will keep you fit and feeling fit.
- Sharing in caring. Understand if someone around you needs advice, food or other essentials. Be willing to share.
- Elderly people may feel confused, lost and need help. Offer them help by getting them what they need, their medicines, daily needs etc.
- If you have children at home, keep them busy by allowing them to help in the household chores-make them feel responsible and acquire new skills.
- Knowledge is power; the more you know about a certain issue, the less fearful you may feel. Make sure to access and believe only the most reliable sources of information for self- protection.
- The symptoms of Corona have been well described. Follow the etiquette of sneezing, coughing avoiding spitting in public places etc.
What is not advisable:
- Avoid tobacco, alcohol and other drugs. Use of tobacco or alcohol or other drugs to cope with emotions or boredom can worsen physical, mental health and reduce immunity
- Do not shun or judge people with COVID infection. While you need to maintain a physical distance and keep yourself safe to prevent such infection, remember they need care and concern.
- If you happen to get infected with Corona, remember most people recover. Do not panic. Practice self-isolation and take medications that are advised.
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