Coronavirus Pandemic: Indian Psychiatry Society survey indicates 20 per cent increase in mental health cases

Mental health is a concern, especially in times where many are dealing with the stress of the coronavirus outbreak and lockdown. This nationwide lockdown was announced recently by PM Modi, and ever since, many across the country have been working from home or spending time with family/themselves due to the break, in their professional life.

Amidst the lockdown, the team at the Indian Psychiatry Society has conducted a survey which has shown a 20 per cent increase in the number of mental health cases since the outbreak in India. The survey reveals that one out of five Indians is suffering from some mental condition in today's time. 

The results also show that people's lifestyle and the impact on the economy are two strong reasons for this increase, as the current outbreak has impacted lakhs across the world. The team further states that these results are seen in one just week of the outbreak, given the seriousness of the crisis, as people who are in the lockdown fear losing jobs, savings, earnings, business etc.

Doctors also claim that the graph would see a rise in the upcoming days as the quarantine will have a massive impact on lives, considering people are at home with limited resources but are always suffering panic attacks, withdrawal syndromes, anxiety and other issues 

A toll-free helpline number was recently launched by the health ministry recently. One can contact 08046110007 and seek help people with any queries regarding mental health issues and conditions. Further, Lav Agarwal, Joint Secretary, the Ministry of Health in a recently held press meet, said,  "We are under lockdown and behavioural issues are very important under such situations. It is a new process. If there are any behavioural issues, lack of understanding for that we at the National Institute of Mental Health in Bangalore in collaboration with all other institutes has been trying to provide guidance. "National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro-Sciences (NIMHANS) has also launched a toll-free number 08046110007. I request everyone to fight unitedly against this disease so if we see any mental health issues then all the institutes are equipped to provide you with the necessary support."