As the nation battles the Coronavirus outbreak, a billion-plus population is confined at home in the 21-day lockdown, and this is leading to mental health concerns.

“It is a tough time and we need to be stable to get thorough. People must rationalise their irrational thoughts without getting panicky till this situation lasts. We need to start conserving our mental energies and have self-help strategies,” says psychiatrist and therapist Dr Parul Tank while speaking on mental health during this challenging time.

With the 21-day lockdown, our freedom is curtailed and maintaining emotional balance is going to be a tough job. People are in ‘hyper arousal state’ which is happening now and this will last for about a week after which the anxiety will come down, she explains.

“Without getting hyper, people need to be resilient and use conservation. Give a routine to the day, have productive distractions, connect with friends and family on mobiles or virtual word. Those who are feeling lonely can use the helpline. As a society, we are very connected. Keep calm as this is going to be a patient and waiting game.”

Another psychiatrist, Dr Harish Shetty, says we are in the early ‘post impact’ phase of the disaster and will tide over the phase. “Social isolation can lead to depression and we Indians are not used to it. It should rather become inspiration to connect.”

Shetty’s advice:  Open the windows and look at the sky, make a phone call to friends, family, stay connected on phone, video calls, do not have alcohol, exercise, have enough water and take enough sleep to keep immunity levels high.