NORMAN Cousins, author of “Anatomy of Illness,” reported that Aaron Frederick Rasmussen Jr., immunologist and associate dean of the University of California School of Medicine, explored the relationship between stress and susceptibility to viral infection. He found that stress diminished the size of immune organs and numbers of immune cells and increased the severity of illness reactions to viral infection.
Health experts likewise revealed that a healthy diet boosts the immune system.
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), in an effort to create awareness on how the pandemic is causing people to feel anxious, distressed or worried, enumerated the various emotional impact: “Fear of contracting the virus of family being sickened; Stress and anxiety related to isolation and quarantine measures; Distress about separation with family members; Fear of longer-term impact of the global disruption, among other reasons.”
ICRC added that in war zones and communities affected by violence, many people are already experiencing huge psychological stress. ICRC is also concerned that this global pandemic may increase this stress exponentially.
Given this data, the committee revealed who are the vulnerable to the psychological and psychosocial impact of the pandemic:
- People with existing mental health conditions.
- Older adults, especially in isolation and those with cognitive decline/dementia.
- People who are at risk of sexual and gender-based violence.
- Children who feel fear and sadness.
Joseph McGuirre Ph.d. M.A., a child psychologist with John Hopkins Medicine, shares some tips on how to manage coronavirus stress:
- Prepare don’t panic. Individuals can use information from trusted resources to develop personal plans of action.
- Focus on prevention. Parents stay close to children to alleviate fear and anxiety. Praise their children for hand-washing habits and maintain regular playing time, meals and other activities.
- Limit computer screen time and media exposure.
McGuirre underlined the importance of mindfulness as a “great technique that can help reduce stress by sitting and focusing on your breathing and senses.” He added that it is also important to not let fear control your life.
Filipinos’ faith in the Lord has substantially helped in the coping mechanism. During this health crisis, most of the displaced workers are still hopeful that God will continue to provide through the financial assistance from the government.