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Post-Covid-19 infections cause mental stress

13 Sep 2021

  • Chinese study notes 25% affected after 6-12 months
By Dinitha Rathnayake Post-Covid-19 infection situations could lead to mental stress, according to Consultant Psychiatrist Dr. Sajeewana Amarasinghe. Speaking at a press conference representing the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), Dr. Amarasinghe highlighted that this was revealed in a study conducted in China. According to this study, 25% of the 1,500 patients who were hospitalised due to Covid-19 suffered from mental illnesses when they were tested after six months and one year. “Our mind is combined with stress. Covid-19 symptoms can last sometimes for six months, which can lead to depression, so they need proper consultation.” Anyone experiencing issues may call the NIMH’s 1926 hotline for advice on the relevant condition, he added. Dr. Amarasinghe also noted that some people can feel mentally down due to the loss of their loved ones, economic conditions, closure of schools, etc. “Most of the kids are addicted to social media and mobile phones. We need to let them work according to a timetable, and lead them towards a normal timetable in this pandemic situation.” According to the child’s age, parents can take a decision on the use of mobile phones to limit screen time, he added. “Playing with kids and walking with them for several minutes is also important to prevent these mental illnesses. Adults also might need more attention during this time related to their mental health, and they need to engage in extracurricular activities if they work online.” If you feel that you or someone you know may be dealing with mental health issues, the following institutions would assist you. The National Institute of Mental Health: 1926 Sri Lanka Sumithrayo: 0112 682 535 Shanthi Maargam: 0717 639 898 Courage Compassion Commitment (CCC) Foundation: 1333  


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