What are some of the effects on people’s mental health during quarantine?
A recent review of the psychological impact of quarantine reports that most studies of quarantined subjects observed effects such as confusion, anger, and post-traumatic stress symptoms,
sometimes lasting even three years after the end of the quarantine.
Who is having the most detrimental effect on their mental health because of the quarantine?
The majority of people will have some effect but those in the age group of 16 – 24 are the most vulnerable with long term
effect on their mental health, this being most people in this age group have the least support, and the development of the brian is in such a precarious stage.
What does the stress chemical “cortisol” do to the body?
When stressors are always present and you constantly feel under attack, that fight-or-flight reaction stays turned on. The long-term activation of the stress-response system and the overexposure to cortisol and other stress hormones that follows can disrupt almost all
your body’s processes. This puts you at increased risk of many health problems, including: Anxiety, Depression, Digestive problems, Headaches, Heart disease, Sleep problems, Weight gain, and Memory and concentration impairment.
How to combat stress and activities you can do to lower your stress and fear?
Stressful events are facts of life. And you may not be able to change your current situation. But you can take steps to manage the impact these events have on you. Things you can do to lower your stress levels are Meditating, eating healthy food,
practicing deep breathing, staying off of technology for a few hours a day, read a book or start a hobby, or spend time in nature, spend quality time with those you love.
What are some healthy coping mechanisms for loneliness and sadness from the Quarantine?
Try to keep your normal schedule as best as you can. Limit exposure to the news, stay busy, meaning find healthy activities such as going out on a hike or walk, talk to friends and family.
Focus on positive thoughts and things you can control and don’t let yourself get sucked down into the negatives. If you draw strength from a belief system, it can bring you comfort during difficult times.
If you have pets spend time with them and talk them on walks or play with them. Also do not set unrealistic expectations on yourself.
What are the positive effects on mental health and the human body with being in nature?
Studies have shown that time in nature — as long as people feel safe — is an antidote for stress: It can lower blood pressure and stress hormone levels, reduce nervous system arousal,
enhance immune system function, increase self-esteem, reduce anxiety, and improve mood. Attention Deficit Disorder and aggression lessen in natural environments, which also help speed the rate of healing.
In a recent study, psychiatric unit researchers found that being in nature reduced feelings of isolation, promoted calm, and lifted mood among patients.
Sources:
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/slightly-blighty/202003/the-psychology-coping-quarantine
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/stress/art-20046037
https://e360.yale.edu/features/ecopsychology-how-immersion-in-nature-benefits-your-health
