A recent research study has found out that loss of smell and taste that is associated with COVID-19 can have a negative impact on quality of life and may lead to depression. The outcomes of the study were published in the American Journal of Otolaryngology.
The study was conducted by members of Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine. The goal of the study was to evaluate the quality of life of people who were affected by Covid-19 infection. 480 respondents were studied for the research for a span of over 6 months, out of which 322 people were Covid-10 positive.
The study stated that there was a significant deficit in the quality of life in those Covid-19 positive patients who reported a loss of smell and taste. Reportedly, there was also a ‘reduced enjoyment of food’ among 87% of the respondents whereas, 43% of the subjects reported depression. At least 57% of the population reported safety-related issues whereas 36% reported more than 2 events.
According to the authors of the study, “Covid-19 associated chemosensory losses have a real and substantial impact on both qualities of life and safety beyond mere inconvenience. The high prevalence of these issues despite a relatively short period of olfactory deficit should alert clinicians to the serious risks to an already vulnerable patient population.”
Talking about depression and mental health, General Surgeon at Pristyn Care says, “The pandemic has taken a toll on mental health, including almost every other aspect of life. The pandemic has led to a mental health crisis, which is worst among people with depression and anxiety. But with correct guidance and self-reliance, deteriorating mental health during Covid-19 could be managed.”
Tips to manage depression and mental health during Covid-19 pandemic:
1. Do not judge your feelings
The second wave of the pandemic has brought in an unprecedented tough time for all people of India. And considering the spike in the number of cases rising, it is natural to feel the stress. Do not judge your thoughts. Given the potential risk of infection and the shortage of medical equipment, it is just likely to feel so. Do not think that your thoughts are unusual or abnormal.
2. Employ strategies to cope up with your thoughts
Do not be harsh on your feelings. If you are feeling how you are feeling, practice strategies to cope up with the hard thoughts in your mind. Engage in physical activities, get enough rest, stay in contact with people who you think can help your thoughts.
3. Cut yourself from news and social media
Today, every media and news channel is overwhelmed with casualties related to covid-19. But this habit will bog up your mind bit by bit. So, make a habit of steeping away from the phone and news channel from time to time. Even if you check the news websites, try to know about the recoveries if you feel drained by the number of deaths or death tolls.
4. Create an environment for healthy communication
Your mental health will largely be impacted by the mental and psychological of the people around you. As such, it is important for you to speak openly to them as to what is bothering you and also encourage those around you to speak about their concerns. Encourage peer support and ask how well your fellow people are doing.
How can mental health affect the overall quality of life?
According to health experts, mental health challenges can affect and degrade the overall quality of life of an individual because:
- they are highly prone to catching infections
- they may face accessing the right treatment
- they may face bouts of intense fear during the global health crisis
- they may feel an increased sense of helplessness and see no hope for the future
- social isolation and emotional stress may become worse in their case along with the preexisting condition (Also read: What causes mental fatigue?)
When to seek help during the Covid-19 pandemic?
While the entire world is talking about the Covid-19 pandemic, let us not forget that mental health is a prevailing epidemic too. It is inevitable that mental health, depression and overall quality of life is likely to exacerbate during this tough time. But, it is important for each one of us to know that professional help for mental health issues is available. You can seek help from your doctor or anyone you can trust with your issues when:
- you experience a constant feeling of emptiness and negativity
- you become agitated at every small thing
- falling asleep becomes tough for you
- you are eating more or less than usual
- you lack energy within your body
- you are not capable of concentrating on your tasks
- you get suicidal thoughts (Suicide Prevention Helpline number of India is 9152987821 and is available 24 hours.)
Doctor available
.jpg/1746696151998_ban-Icon.png){kind=icon}
