2020 year has been mostly characterized by the spread and the prevalence of the deadly virus covid-19 contracting 80 million people as of 26 December 2020 and turning human lives upside down. Many sectors have been affected by the pandemic virus ranging from health, education, economy and more others as well as the human core values have been hugely disrupted leading both to social unrest and inducing a large number of mental breakdowns.

With its scope and long duration, the pandemic crisis has enormously caused havoc at many levels. More than 56 million of infected patients recovered while 1.76 million lives were lost. Besides, the pandemic has also provoked a high rate of stress, anxiety and depression associated with post-traumatic disorders. These are triggered by various factors such as the heavy toll of the virus, a family member loss, isolation due to lockdown restrictions, lay-offs, or business bankruptcies. Indeed, disparities have been found when dealing with the challenges posed by covid-19 like it has been proven by a study conducted by the international aid organization CARE. The study found that women were more likely to encounter mental health problems than men during the pandemic. The study outcome of indirect impacts of the crises revealed that among more than 10,000 men and women, 27 percent of women – compared to 10 percent of men – had reported increases in mental health issues. The report has also identified that due to the increasing number of unemployed, a lot of households worry about food, work, and health care. Women were also almost twice as likely to report that accessing quality healthcare services that they needed had been harder during the pandemic.

Promoting mental well-being

Mental health problem was so long taken for granted until it finally had to be addressed as it has turned into a serious global issue. Obviously, 2020 has been a difficult year for all people around the world but somehow behind any challenges and hardships there always lie opportunities and solutions. That is most importantly what this year taught each of us. The sanitary crisis gave rise to mental health awareness, promotion, and some prevention programmes. Mental health does not include only emotional and psychological well-being but also considers its social aspect. Being aware of the importance of one’s mental well-being is the first key step towards preventing mental health disorder and coping with stress. A few practical tips to maintain and promote one’s mental wellness especially in those times of crisis include practicing mindfulness and meditation, engaging in regular physical exercises, following a well-balanced diet, and maintaining healthier relationships. When lockdown restrictions end, go have a nature walk as well, it will help so much in handling stress. With the vaccine being rolled out in many countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom, there is hope for better days. We start to see the light at the end of the tunnel.

Sources: Forbes / mentalhealth.gov / Covid-19 Statistics