Mental Health is vital in an individual’s life. In the entire human history, physical health has always been the primary focus point to which the people give utmost importance, but there has always been a lot of inhibition towards mental health and its acknowledgement unlike physical health, so there is a dire need of equal focus; treatment for any impairment/problem; care and attention. Fortunately, now we have come to an acceptable standpoint in improving people’s attitude and perspective towards mental health. But still we have to pave a long way. The problem is that in this path of improvement, the covid-19 global pandemic plays the role of a strong barrier.

The World Mental Health Day is observed on October 10th to promote awareness of mental health concerns worldwide and to organize efforts in support of mental health. “Although the COVID-19 crisis was first and foremost a physical health crisis, it also includes the seeds of a severe mental health disaster,†this statement was according to a United Nations (UN) policy briefing titled “COVID-19 and the Need for Action on Mental Health” which was released in 2021.

Citizens from all over the world have been enduring significant stress and anxiety as a result of the ongoing COVID 19 pandemic since early 2020. Unemployment, which results in a loss of income; sickness, social isolation, the death of a family member as a result of the virus, the uncertainty of what the future holds, helplessness, and a lack of individual control over the situation, etc that we are all facing are some of the factors contributing to increased tension.

According to the definition by World Health Organization; mental health is “a state of well-being in which every individual realizes his or her own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to contribute to his/her community.†The COVID-19 crisis’ psycho-social impact has impacted millions of people’s mental health and emotional well-being in a variety of ways, regardless of nationality.

IMPACT ON MENTAL HEALTH OF SCHOOL AND COLLEGE GOING STUDENTS:-

Seclusion, lack of contact with peers, and for many, a loss of mental and financial security, all had an influence on their everyday lives, including disrupting their education. As a result, youth are at a higher risk of developing depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders. Because of the multiple stressors outlined above, the pandemic has also contributed to a decrease in young productivity. Pre-lockdown learning for children and teenagers was mostly one-on-one engagement with mentors/teachers and peer groups around the world. Over 91 percent of the world’s student population has been significantly impacted by nationwide school and institution closures (Lee, 2020). Children and adolescents who are confined to their homes experience uncertainty and anxiety as a result of disruptions in their education, physical activity, and socialization chances (Jiao et al., 2020). For long periods of time, the absence of a structured school and college setting causes disruption in routine, boredom, and a lack of fresh ideas for engaging in various academic and extracurricular activities. Because they are unable to play outside, meet friends, or participate in in-person school events, some children have exhibited decreased levels of affect. Affect means any experience of feeling or emotion (Lee, 2020; Liu et al., 2020; Zhai and Du, 2020). Because of the long-term change in their routine, these youngsters have grown more clinging, attention-seeking, and reliant on their parents. It’s expected that children would avoid returning to school once the lockdown is lifted, and that they will have trouble re-establishing contact with their mentors once the schools reopen. As a result, the restriction on their movement may have a long-term negative impact on their general psychological well-being (Lee, 2020) According to a research, older adolescents and youth are anxious about the cancellation of exams, exchange programmes, and academic events (Lee, 2020).

Unfortunately, as a result of their inability to cope with the multiple stressors they were often ill-prepared to encounter, youth suicide rates have risen. According to a study published by Loades et al., a recent analysis of the association between mental health and loneliness/social isolation in children and adolescents indicated that COVID-19 social distancing measures may be particularly harmful for youth (2020).

Hoarding behaviour among youngsters increased throughout the pandemic period (Oosterhoff et al.,2020). Furthermore, children’s increased usage of the internet and social media as a result of their longer confinement at home induces them to use the internet obsessively, access objectionable content, and increases their vulnerability to being bullied or abused (Cooper, 2020; UNICEF, 2020).

IMPACT ON MENTAL HEALTH OF ADOLESCENTS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS:-

Children with OCD are estimated to be among the most vulnerable to the pandemic. They are expected to be distressed due to obsessions and compulsions related to contamination, hoarding, and somatic preoccupation. One of the most important protections against the transmission of COVID-19 is cleanliness. To combat the infection, according to the United Nations’ policy guidelines, people should wash their hands six times a day and whenever they touch something (APA, 2020; United Nations, 2020). The lockdown has made the healthy population tensed about acquiring ample food and prevention related resources like masks and sanitizers, which has made it worse for people with hoarding disorder (APA, 2020; Mukherjee et al.,2020).

IMPACT ON LGBTQ YOUTH:-

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (LGBTQ) youth may be especially prone to severe mental health consequences during the epidemic, according to research. In a non-probability survey of LGBTQ youth conducted in fall 2020, it was found that a large percentage of adolescent respondents (ages 13-17) reported symptoms of anxiety (73%) or depressive (67%) disorder in the previous two weeks, and that 48 percent seriously considered suicide in the previous year. LGBTQ youth were already at a higher risk of depression, suicide ideation, and substance abuse before the pandemic. In 2019, 66 percent of lesbian, homosexual, and bisexual high school students (compared to 37% of all high school students) experienced continuous feelings of sadness and hopelessness, while 47% indicated serious thoughts of suicide (compared to 19% of all high school students).

SOCIAL DISTANCING, ISOLATION AND QUARANTINE: THE PRIME CAUSE:-

Isolation is the process of removing a sick person with an infectious disease from healthy people who do not have the sickness.

Quarantine is the process of separating and restricting the movement of people who have been exposed to a contagious disease in order to see if they become sick.

Psychological Impact of Isolation and Quarantine:-

Isolation and quarantine protect the public by preventing exposure to people who may or may not be infected. It can be a really terrifying and anxiety-causing event. It disturbs off one’s regular schedule and causes stress, which manifests itself in behavioural and emotional symptoms. It keeps a person away from routine and familiar objects, which might trigger dread, anxiety, depression, and mood swings. The hospital staff’s attitude is also affected by this infectious condition, which further has an effect on their care.

Because of the lockdown, there is a considerable drop in the growth rate and extended doubling time of cases, which is a vital means for breaking the cycle of infection. Although isolation helps in the reduction of infections but the decreased access to family, friends, and other social support networks has led to an increase in mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, suicide, and substance withdrawal. Along with this, covid-19 itself created psychological problems like adjustment disorders, panic disorder, fear, denial, anger outburst, loneliness, insomnia, post-traumatic stress disorder, stress, social disruption and stigma.

MORE ESTIMATES OF MENTAL HEALTH PROBLEM DURING THIS PANDEMIC:-

During the COVID-19 epidemic, a mental health catastrophe has emerged.

• According to the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over one-third of US individuals suffered from anxiety or depression as of June 2020.
• For young adults, the rates are nearly two times higher, a group that has already seen a major increase in the prevalence of mental health disorders in the last decade.
• Over 60% of people aged 18 to 24 were thought to be depressed or anxious, and a quarter said they had considered suicide in the previous month. These figures show a significant increase in depression rates from around 11% of all adults in 2019 and around 25% of college students prior to the pandemic.

MAJOR MENTAL HEALTH PROBLEMS IN INDIA IN THIS ONGOING PANDEMIC:-

According to a survey conducted by the Indian Psychiatry Society, the number of cases of mental illness increased by 20% by the end of March 2020. Things have become a lot worse since then.

According to Dr. Sanjeev Kanoria, the founder of Suasth Hospital, the common mental health issues among students during this period are irritability, mood swings, low mood, anxiety, dependence on video games, emotional eating (excessive eating to deal with negative feelings like irritation, worry, boredom, and fear), increased usage of social media, which exacerbates negative emotions like comparison, low self-esteem, and body image issues, among others; anger outbursts, isolating self and video fatigue; feeling numb and suffering from low motivation; PTSD if exposed to intra-familial violence; experiments with high-risk behaviours like gambling, sexting, and watching pornography;

There are a few mental health issues among students that are becoming more prevalent as a result of Covid-19 and the confinement. The Catalyst Group’s Co-Founder and Managing Director, Dr. Divyani Sharma, a qualified clinical psychologist, made the following observations:

• Exam anxiety and exam results become worse among youth as exams are repeatedly postponed and exams are taken online or in methods that have never been attempted before.
• Social isolation causes depressive thinking and recurrent suicide ideas in them.
• Behavioural and emotional issues as a result of excessive screen use.
• A sense of distrust stemming from the inability to physically connect with friends and peers.

Covid-19 has wreaked havoc and devastation over the world in ways no one could have ever predicted. The entire planet came to a halt in one manner or another. Life as we knew it was no longer the same. And as a result, change has become the new constant. Online learning has become popular among educational institutions. The students were initially enticed and happy by the prospect of not having to hustle to get to their institutions and being able to do it from the comfort of their own homes. This tranquilly, however, did not endure long. Both students’ and teachers’ mental and physical health has suffered as a result of online education. Following are some of the usual conditions that youngsters are going through:-

• Lack of interest– Humans are social beings and even the most introverted individuals require human interaction from time to time. The kids have become disinterested in their classes. The majority of them turn off the camera and continue about their business. The sluggishness/ inactiveness have instilled a lack of interest in not only the studies, but in everything else as well. The stress of schoolwork and assignments after school has taken a toll on mental health and mood.
• Stress and Anxiety– The students’ focus levels in online learning declined when their gaze wandered elsewhere than the screen. As a result, most pupils/students found it difficult to keep up with the lessons. The pressure to concentrate and deliver the desired outcomes has caused a tremendous amount of tension and stress. Tasks, assignments, and homework slipped between the cracks. The majority of the children appeared to be falling behind and succumbing to the pressure. The children’s minds had been tampered with and are in a delicate state.
• ‘Zoom’ Fatigue– Zoom fatigue is a feeling of exhaustion that occurs after participating in zoom classes or video conferences. Since the amount of time spent in front of a screen has increased dramatically, the mind is being bombarded with information, making it harder for the brain to process it all. The over-involvement of parents has contributed to the anxiety and stress that already existed. Parents have taken it upon themselves to stay heavily involved with their children and their online lessons because they are restricted to the walls of their homes.

FACTORS LED TO THE WORSENING OF MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES IN STUDENTS DURING THIS PERIOD:-

• Stigma:- As pointed out by Dr. Kanoria, the biggest issue with mental health is the stigma associated with it. Despite the sharp increase in mental health issues at this time and the increase in discussion about mental health following the suicide of Bollywood actor Sushant Singh Rajput, there is still a widespread disregard for mental health.

When children or teenagers discuss mental health with their parents or school, they are frequently simply ignored as unimportant. The various false beliefs such as ‘be positive,’ ‘it’s all in your head,’ ‘you fight it with your willpower,’ and superstitious rituals are all too common. “Let me be clear: such measures frequently enhance the patient’s pain, with a high possibility of the symptoms worsening with each passing day,†adds Dr. Kanoria.

• Lack of awareness and prompt diagnosis:- Most of the students are unaware that they are dealing with certain conditions and attribute their bad mood to just “feeling low.” It is critical for students, teachers, and parents to recognize the prevalence of mental health difficulties in children and teenagers and to provide them with the support they require.

“Early expert diagnosis and treatment can make a big difference. Medication administered by a psychiatrist and psychotherapy provided by a psychologist are frequently used in treatment. These techniques have shown a more demonstrable and positive impact.” – As stated by Dr Kanoria. He also states that realistic expectations from parents and teachers, honest communication, and peer, parent, and teacher assistance can all help with recovery.

• Effect of troubled guardians:- According to Dr. Divyani Sharma, being isolated with parents or guardians who are dealing with mental health issues themselves might have a negative effect on the children. When direct caregivers of children of a certain age are isolated, then their own physical and mental health may deteriorate. Vulnerable children may believe that there is no one to help them or they will begin to feel lonely. During such unexpected times, some children may become victims of parental frustration that may arise from job loss or other financial issues.
• Increased screen time:- The increased screen time, whether for online classes or entertainment, is another major cause of developing mental health difficulties among students as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. According to Dr. Kanoria, “many studies demonstrate that increasing social media and screen time might actually contribute to anxiety, low moods, sleep deprivation, low self-esteem, and so on.”

Now that we have come across all the factors that led to various mental health problems, the following question arise:-

HOW CAN PARENTS AND TEACHERS HELP CHILDREN IN DEALING WITH MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES THAT HAS EVOLVED DURING THIS CRITICAL PERIOD?

The certain areas which need special focus in adolescence phase by the parents are the following:-

• Parents: The best role models– The best ‘role model’ for children is their parents, and home is literally the best place to learn ‘life skills.’ As a result, now is the perfect moment/time for parents to model the most critical life skills with their children, such as coping with stress, coping with emotions, and problem-solving. Exam cancellation has made it easier to deal with disappointments and uncertainties. There should be an alternative to every disappointment and uncertainty. Furthermore, parents can include adolescents in the decision-making process whenever possible to instil a sense of control in them, particularly in situations impacting them.
• When compared to young children, adolescents are likely to have a greater understanding of COVID 19. As a result, communication between them must be more open and non-directive in nature. Judgmental remarks regarding adolescents, on the other hand, should be avoided.
• This is a great time for older children to know responsibility, accountability, involvement, and collaboration. By taking on responsibility of certain daily chores at home, such as the maintenance of their goods and utility items. Other works like cooking, managing money, learning first aid, organising their room, and helping with laundry, and cleaning are just a few of the skills they can learn.
• Excessive internet use, such as COVID-19-related internet surfing, should be avoided because it causes anxiety. Excessive and careless usage of social media or online gaming should also be discouraged. Adolescents should be negotiated with to limit their time and internet-based activities or games. More non-gadget-related activities should be promoted.
• Taking up creative pursuits such as art, music, dance, and others into account as it might help people manage their mental health and well-being in such situations. Instilling self-motivated reading in adolescents by allowing them to choose books of their own choice and discussing them is beneficial for their development.
• Since adolescence is a time of enthusiasm and risk-taking, some adolescents may believe they are immortal and don’t follow distancing and personal hygiene rules. Here, adolescents must be confronted with this straight on.
• Parents are advised to look after their own mental health and attempt to cope with stress in a healthy way.

“While parents can encourage their children by spending time with them and trying to understand their situation through open dialogues; teachers, even when teaching online, play a vital role in inspiring studentsâ€- as suggested by Dr Divyani Sharma.

Students should be constantly informed about the coming changes in the sector as a result of the pandemic, its impact, and how to embrace technology to stay current in challenging times- This was advised by Dr. Meena Chintamaneni, Registrar and Associate Dean at School of Pharmacy & Technology Management, Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies (NMIMS). Adaptability, agility, and innovative thinking emerge as key drivers for survival during these difficult times. Regular webinars, presentations, small group discussions, and virtual one-on-ones help students in gaining a perspective, better understanding of the situation, and dealing with it- she adds.

According to Dr. Sanjeev Kanoria; parents, teachers, and other adults can protect children’s and adolescents’ mental health by taking the following steps:-

• Accept that each child’s tolerance for stress, fear, and anxiety differs.

• Educate yourself and recognise that mental disease has a biological component that requires the attention of skilled mental health specialists. Accept the possibility that your child will require counselling or psychiatric treatment.
• A psychologist’s psychotherapy and counselling can make a tremendous difference. The best benefits are achieved when medications are combined with psychotherapy.
• Don’t put your faith in therapies that aren’t backed up by science, such as going to so-called ‘healers’. You can end up doing more harm than good.
• Keep a keen eye out for early warning indicators and tiny changes in the child’s behaviour. Seek help from a psychiatrist or psychologist right away.
• Allow your child to express his or her emotions and thoughts. Make efforts to listen with empathy.
• Spend meaningful time with your children as a parent and assure them of your support and help.
• Encourage them to read and acquire information about prevalent mental health issues in their age group as a teacher. Discuss these problems openly.
• Establish mental health first aid services in the school and community.
• Become a member of any support network for people with mental illnesses and their caretakers.

HOW CAN STUDENTS DEAL WITH MENTAL ILLNESS ON THEIR OWN IN THIS DIFFICULT TIMES?

While we cannot expect younger students to understand or deal with their own mental health concerns, older students should be made aware of the issue. They will be less vulnerable to things that can cause anxiety and worsen their mental health problems if they are more aware of how they can take care of themselves.

So, Dr. Sanjeev Kanoria, offers few brief recommendations for older students on how to take care of their own mental health:-

• Eat healthily.
• Make sure you get enough rest.
• Exercise on a regular basis.
• Keep in touch with friends and family.
• If you’re experiencing mood swings, sudden sleep disruptions, or other symptoms, talk to your family.
• Spend time on productive projects and be innovative.
• Learn coping methods and practise self-compassion.
• Participate in family chores and maintain contact with your parents.
• Time spent in front of the screen should be limited. Choose no screen activities and go offline.
• Keep an eye out for online bullying and stay safe.

Dr. Divyani Sharma, has some further advice for students in the scenario of the pandemic:-

• When you’re feeling down, call your family and catch up with your friends over video call.
• Reward yourself for doing challenging activities to take your mind off the boring Covid-19 lockdown life.
• Create to-do lists and prioritise activities to help you manage your time and responsibilities.

Conclusion

To effectively address the negative effects of COVID-19 around the world, decision and policy-makers, educational leaders, professors, and academic centre staff must collaborate with young people to ensure that they have the support and resources which they need to address their mental, emotional, and behavioural health requirements in the aftermath of the pandemic. In addition, we all must be as accepting and empathic as possible. Because globally, we are all facing enormous problems that have ripped the fabric of our society apart, and caused immense damage and human suffering. In order to protect our mental health and well-being, we must use technology to communicate and stay connected, as well as live healthy lives and develop unique coping methods, including a positive mindset.

REFERENCES

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7444649/

https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fped.2021.622608/full

https://www.who.int/news/item/05-10-2020-covid-19-disrupting-mental-health-services-in-most-countries-who-survey

BY- Aditi Choudhury

Masters in Psychology, 1^st Division
Utkal University.