Ever since this coronavirus pandemic has started, nothing appears to be the same. The world has turned upside down because of this highly contagious virus. Governments all over the world took immediate action and observed lockdown for the safety of the people. Initially, the government instructed the citizens to stay strictly isolated in their homes. At first, it appeared to be easy, but now as the months are passing by it is getting nearly impossible. This social distancing is not only affecting people financially, but it is taking a toll on the mental health of the people as well.

It is difficult to stay in the same environment for this long period, especially for youngsters who are missing going to school and meeting friends. They are spending too much time on social media, which is eventually adding to stress since everywhere on it there are scary stories and figures about people who have fallen ill to Covid-19. People from all around the world are showing similar symptoms of anxiety and depression.

The following factors are affecting us through so many ways, but there are also way to handle them. Let us look at what we are facing right now.

Overthinking

Teenagers are already known for being emotional, and so this lockdown has been extremely harsh on them. Over thinking is something that can make a person’s life miserable. Staying at home and social distancing has given everyone extra time with little to do, which leads them to think about the worse that can happen.

The best way to avoid over thinking is to spend more time with your family members and involve yourself in creative and fun activities such as crafting, cooking, playing board games, reading and writing.

Fear

Everyone is fearful about their loved ones and themselves contracting Covid-19. We should be well aware that this can happen to us, but only if we stop following the guidelines given by doctors and experts. We should not only follow the safety measure ourselves, but also tell others to follow them.

Taking stress won’t make the situation any better but instead, it will affect one’s mental and physical health. We should have faith in Allah and pray for our well being.

Depression on news channels and social media

Ever since the pandemic started, news about it started to circulate all around social media and on TV channels.

Therefore, I try to avoid watching news bulletins and talk shows. But as we must be well-informed during these crucial times, it has become a basic need. We should know that the news circulating on social media is not fake, therefore we also need to check authentic news channels and websites. So, when we hear anything distressing, we should not panic and first, confirm the news. We should look at the positive perspective and not let the negative thoughts come to our minds.

Even in these crucial times, we should not neglect our mental health and talk about it openly to our parents, guardians, or friends.

Published in Dawn, Young World, July 11th, 2020