Fear, stress or constant concern during the COVID-19 pandemic can lead to long-term consequences in communities and families. Health specialists should anticipate and navigate reactions to stress, said doctor Jana Chihai, university lecturer, IPN reports.
In a conference entitled “Mental Health Problems – Serious Consequences During Post-COVID Period”, which was staged at the Academy of Sciences of Moldova, Jana Chihai said a mental health crisis is as significant as any other health crisis. “The WHO declared mental health the second public heath priority during the COVID-19 pandemic. Such a crisis can appear even when a family has a crisis prevention plan and uses techniques taught by mental health professionals. On some days, we can cope better than on other days,” stated Jana Chihai.
According to the doctor, the acknowledgment of the problem and acceptance of assistance are a first step toward alleviating the consequences of stress. The persons with pre-existing mental illnesses should continue the treatment and beware of new symptoms or worsening of the state. Psychiatrists should definitely encourage the patients to continue the treatment and this means strict monitoring of the presence of the necessary medicines in the medical kit.
University assistant Alina Bologan said the COVID-19 pandemic substantially influenced the life of people all over the world, with many people suffering from stress, anxiety and depression fueled by the pathological fear of becoming infected. “Public health specialists run the risk of developing psychopathological symptoms, especially if they work in primary medical assistance, emergency service, emergency and intensive care units so that more should be done to manage anxiety and stress in this group in the long run too so as to prevent burnout, depression and posttraumatic stress disorders,” stated Alina Bologan.
University assistant Andrei Eșanu informed that a guidebook titled “Period after COVID-19: Information for Patients” was launched as part of the campaign “Support in physical and psychological rehabilitation after COVID-19” to disseminate information about mental health. “The psychological support starts from the recognition of the necessity of being helped and supported by those around, while a daily action plan helps a lot to recover. During the rehabilitation period, the lack of attention, lucid thinking and concentration difficulty are possible effects that can be yet ameliorated in time,” noted Andrei Eșanu.
