This archive report was first published on 12 July 2020.
July 12, 2020, marked a turning point in the world's fight against Covid-19. The pandemic, which had brought the world to a standstill, had been raging for months, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. But as the world struggled to come to terms with the new reality, a growing number of people were beginning to realize the devastating impact of the pandemic on their mental health.
According to a study by Prof Ranran Song of Huazhong University of Science and Technology in Wuhan, China, children as young as 8 years old were experiencing symptoms of depression and anxiety. The study, which involved 1,784 children, found that 22.6 percent reported depression symptoms and 18.9 percent reported anxiety symptoms after just 33.7 days in isolation.
But the pandemic's impact on mental health wasn't limited to children. Adults were also struggling to cope with the stress and anxiety of living in a world that seemed to be constantly changing. A survey conducted by the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) in March found that 32 percent of people between 18 and 50 years old reported a negative impact on their mental health. Just two weeks later, that number had risen to 45 percent.
So, what can we do to manage our mental health while in isolation? One of the simplest and most effective ways is to stay connected with loved ones. Whether it's a phone call, a video chat, or a text message, staying in touch with others can help to alleviate feelings of loneliness and isolation.
Another important step is to prioritize self-care. This can include activities such as exercise, meditation, and reading. By taking care of our physical and emotional needs, we can help to reduce stress and anxiety and improve our overall mental well-being.
Finally, it's essential to seek help if we're struggling to cope with our mental health. Whether it's a therapist, a support group, or a hotline, there are many resources available to help us navigate the challenges of living in a world with Covid-19.
