COVID-19 and Mental Health

Pandemic, COVID-19, vaccine, social distancing, masks, sanitizer—since 2020, these words have been on everyone’s lips; not forgetting lockdown, border closures, trade restrictions, and world economic standstill.

As of 1 November, 2021, the World Health Organisation (WHO) declared 246,594,191 confirmed cases of COVID-19, including 4,998,784 deaths worldwide (WHO, COVID-19, Dashboard).

Everyone has been affected by this pandemic, either directly or indirectly. In a joint statement issued on 13 October, 2020, the ILO, FAO, IFAD and WHO stated: “The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a dramatic loss of human life worldwide and presents an unprecedented challenge to public health, food systems and the world of work.”

In addition, the COVID-19, as with any pandemic phenomenon, has affected individuals and society, causing disruption, anxiety, and stress. In an endeavour to stem the further spread of the disease, governments worldwide have enforced lockdowns. Isolation, social distancing, and closure of educational institutions, workplaces, and entertainment venues consigned people to stay in their homes. However, the restrictive measures undoubtedly have affected the social and mental health of individuals.

A review published in The Lancet said that the separation from loved ones, loss of freedom, boredom, and uncertainty can cause deterioration in an individual’s mental health status.

Common changes noted in the behaviour of children andteens have included: increased sadness, depression, or worry;difficulties with concentration and attention.

Family members should regularly check up on the elderly living in nursing facilities, as well as encourage the younger of them to engage in conversations, games, and the elderly’s daily routine.

As Seventh-day Adventists, we must and can trust in the protecting power of God during this crisis. He tells us: “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand” (Isaiah. 41.10, NKJV).

In the words of Paul, “We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed” (2 Corinthians. 4.8, 9, NKJV).

Although we are facing struggles and difficult trials—and we know that more challenging situations will come—we must hold on to the promise that He is our refuge and strength; and, even if we go through the valley of the shadow of death, we should not be afraid, because His staff and His rod will comfort us (Psalms. 23).

Our final victory is from the Lord; trust in Him!