People have been forced to confine their homes with travel restrictions and lockdowns being placed across the globe. None of us would have imagined this kind of emergency situation in our wildest dreams. We are now unable to go to work, meet our friends, or have dinner with our loved ones at a restaurant without being anxious about our surroundings. We continually fear and worry about the risks, and the consequences may bring along with it.

This Pandemic has also affected almost every country economically, paving the way to the great recession, which can cost billions of people their living. A form of racism has also started to creep in people's minds blaming a particular region and ethnicity for the spread of the virus. It is time that people understand that the spread of the virus was not anyone's fault, and it was not done deliberately. As human beings, we must show empathy and compassion towards the people who have been affected in the same way or even more.

A lot of news and information about COVID 19 is being spread across through media channels and other unauthorized sources. So, if you are weak-hearted or get distressed or depressed very quickly, stop searching and if you must, then only stick to the authorized channels. Spreading fake news and rumors about the Pandemic must be strictly prohibited. So, if you get a piece of news and are unsure how true it is, investigate it and do not share it unless you are 100% sure of its authenticity. You can also jot down the essential points to take the necessary steps and precautions to keep yourself and your loved ones safe during these difficult times.

Just like your physical health, maintaining your mental health is also very important. Hence, make sure that you stay away from overthinking and involve yourself in some productive activity, for instance, reading a book. It has been found that many people have turned to cook, read, garden, and other mind refreshing activities, which allows them to deal with the situation calmly. Take this situation as an opportunity to spend quality time with your family and catch up with the hobbies you were unable to pursue as you were extremely busy making money and catching up with your busy schedules. Try keeping a journal as this will help you to retrospect and take charge of your life.

Be compassionate towards the health workers who are working day and night to help us through these rough times. Acknowledge their efforts and stay at home, so that they too remain safe.

Stay connected with your loved ones, eat a balanced diet, exercise more, and engage in activities that can help you relax and de-stress. If you are still extremely anxious about the situation, don’t hesitate to take help from psychosocial support services. They provide specific self-care strategies to mitigate stress and support your mental well-being.

We urge to not fear, but take necessary preventive steps to fight this invisible enemy. Take care of yourself at this time, and always remember that this is just a phase and will pass away soon.

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