How to avoid going stir-crazy during the shutdown

The lack of social interaction could lead to a surge in cases of depression or anxiety, says a psychologist.

PETALING JAYA: A psychology expert has warned of a possible surge in symptoms of mental health problems during the two-week shutdown under the Movement Control Order.

Dr Muhammad Muhsin Ahmad Zahari said he had observed that the shutdown order had indeed caused widespread anxiety among the general public – consciously or unconsciously – as shown by the number of people flouting the rule on social distancing.

This could also be seen in the large crowds at transport hubs, government offices, supermarkets and eateries even on the first day of the shutdown, he said.

In view of a spike in Covid-19 infections, the government has ordered all offices to be closed and all public activities to be suspended for two weeks, during which the general public have been told to stay at home.

Muhsin said those who obsess about the Covid-19 pandemic can suffer an episode of severe distress.

“A prolonged MCO shutdown may lead to people becoming depressed in the long term. Keeping oneself physically away (from others) may lead to depression. If he or she already has depression or anxiety disorder, this may get aggravated further and possibly lead to a mental health crisis,” he said.

Worrying about the economic consequences of the shutdown on their livelihood may also exacerbate any mental health problems.

Muhsin said there was also a need to consider the increase in social media interactions during this time. “There was a rebound in interactions via social media particularly on Covid-19 after the MCO announcement.”

He said this, coupled with the wave of misinformation about the disease, contributed to panic in the community.

“This makes more people feel anxious and depressed. If left alone, this overload of information on social media can lead to the (excessive) preoccupation of the general public on the Covid-19 pandemic.”

What can the public do to mitigate any negative effects?

Muhsin advised people to only believe information from authorities.

“Optimise and focus on activities you enjoy doing the most at home,” he added.

He also urged the public to speak about any distress they felt to someone they could trust, and to follow the recommendations by the authorities on the MCO.

Maintain a healthy diet and sleeping pattern. “Don’t overeat or oversleep as a way to tackle your boredom.”

The shutdown period could be an opportunity to improve bonding among family members or with children.

He added that, since teleconsultation or remote consultation is not widely available in Malaysia, those suffering from depression or anxiety may still see a psychiatrist or go to a mental health clinic during this time if their symptoms suddenly become overwhelming, as these places are listed as essential services under the law.

An exacerbation of symptoms may show up as insomnia, excessive worrying, severe depressed mood affecting your physical body (e.g. non-specific pain on your body), or suicidal tendencies.

However, he urged individuals to try and visit clinics located outside of hospital premises to reduce the chances of them spreading the Covid-19 infection.

“However if you are in a mental health crisis, you can go to the Accident and Emergency department of any hospital,” he said. - FMT