"Concerns around COVID-19 and its impact on our health and economy may lead to mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, and unhealthy behaviors such as excessive substance use, aggression, or unhealthy eating habits," said Prakash Masand M.D., a Duke-NUS psychiatrist and founder of COPE.
Concerns around COVID-19 and its impact on our health and economy may lead to mental health concerns including anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, and unhealthy behaviors such as excessive substance use, aggression, or unhealthy eating habits. COPE's Prakash Masand, MD shares some tips on how to alleviate stress.
Shifting someone’s thinking away from the current anxiety-producing situation is a great way to get out of their own heads. “The idea is to shift their thinking away from the current situation that is causing anxiety, and getting them to focus on a more pleasant time ahead of them,” says Dr. Prakash Masand, psychiatrist and founder of the Centers of Psychiatric Excellence. “Having something to look forward to is a quick and easy way to improve your mood.” If the person can’t think of an answer, Dr. Masand suggests telling them that the two of you will get together once it’s all over, either to see a movie, go to their favorite restaurant, or do something else you both enjoy. A small gesture of solidarity that can have a big effect.