Pandemic scenarios affect our mental health

CIU Psychological Counseling and Guidance Center (PCGC) Expert Psychologist Huriye Koruşan, evaluated the psychological impact of the increase in cases and the decisions taken in the country on the human being.

CIU Psychological Counseling and Guidance Center (PCGC) Expert Psychologist Huriye Koruşan stated that the increase in cases in the country and the uncertainty about the decisions made causes an understandable fear, and this situation causes problems relating to mental health, changes in sleeping and eating patterns, plus concentration. In addition, she pointed out that it may cause an increase in tobacco and substance use.

Noting that repeated exposure to the worst scenarios in relation to the epidemic are harmful, Koruşan made recommendations on following the news from reliable sources, recognizing anxiety-causing situations, and taking measures for individuals to apply in order to control themselves.

Focus on positive information
Expert Psychologist Koruşan also gave information about what people can do to feel safe; reminding that it is of great importance to be able to look at events constructively while paying attention to physical health.

For physical health; Koruşan suggested attention to a balanced diet, relaxation exercises, and meditation were necessary, while focusing on the positive information that comes to the fore in the news is necessary in being able to acknowledge developments in a constructive manner.

Every individual should take their precautions
Recalling that experts from all over the world are working on the epidemic, Huriye Koruşan said, “people can pass the virus with the mildest symptoms without knowing that they are sick. Many people who do not feel good are cured. Wearing masks, washing hands frequently, and paying attention to social distancing have protective effects."

Pointing out that individuals who take their precautions and refrain from being in crowded environments for long periods of time reduce the speed of the epidemic's spread, Koruşan said, “it will also be beneficial for your mental health to talk to people you trust outside of the COVID-19 agenda. Talking about the negative aspects of the same issue all the time will be harmful to you.”

Expert Psychologist Koruşan stated that healthily coping with stress and anxiety enables clear thinking and further stated, “Helping to protect ourselves and those we value will make the society stronger”.