COVID-19 and Its Mental Effects

Iveth Quintanilla

COVID-19’s effects on people differ in many ways. There are the physical, emotional and mental impacts that the global pandemic is having as it is ravages economies worldwide.  And as the situation continues downhill, health experts say there is need to discuss and treat the effects that the spike of cases and ten COVID-19 related deaths are having on families and friends.  In today’s Ask the Experts, Mental Health Coordinator Iveth Quintanilla discussed some of the mental health effects that you might be experiencing and how to cope with it to ensure self care. According to Quintanilla, as the COVID-19 continues to explode globally and in our communities, it is normal for people to experience a wide range of thoughts, feelings and reactions.

Iveth Quintanilla, Mental Health Coordinator

“Anxiety worry and fear are the most common feelings being expressed at this time as we have many questions as how long this will last. What is going to happen? Who will take care of my family if we family and so many other unanswered questions. Sadness, tearfulness or lost of interest in usually enjoyable activities may also be experience while other may experience physical symptoms such as increase heart rates, upset stomach, fatigue or other uncomfortable sensations. The response for some people is frustration, irritability, or anger, restless or agitation, having trouble relaxing, feeling helpless, difficulty concentrating or sleeping, feeling disconnected from others or even being fearful about going to public spaces. I am sure that at some point we have all experienced some of these feelings. However, these experiences are all understandable as we fear this significant challenge.”