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In most contexts, the social stigma surrounding mental health problems exists due to cultural norms and a lack of understanding of the complexities and realities of mental health, resulting in isolation, increased vulnerability and lack of awareness. support for people with mental health problems.
This stigma has been exacerbated during COVID-19, as more people may need mental health or psychosocial support, but are unable to access it due to the cessation of in-person services and limited remote care options.
Thus, COVID-19 has become a global mental health crisis.
Stigma related to mental health and COVID-19 can exacerbate pre-existing conditions or lead to new psychosocial and mental health problems for individuals, families, and communities. Many humanitarian crises affect people who are traveling or displaced and who already experience significant stigmatization of the host communities where they reside. Host communities have often accused displaced populations of bringing crime and disease, leaving them isolated and more vulnerable to mental health and psychosocial problems. This can exacerbate negative perceptions and violence against those who have or are believed to be carrying the virus.
Those who test positive and recover may experience challenges reintegrating with family, friends, and the community, similar to those experienced during Ebola outbreaks. Despite the COVID-19 test being negative or having survived, people can remain isolated from their communities and disconnected from the social connection that would allow them to better cope with the stressful and challenging situation. This also affects COVID-19 essential first responders and service providers, for whom community support is vital to mental well-being. First responders’ risk of exposure to the virus is comparatively high, putting them at an equally high risk of social exclusion, isolation and anxiety.
In recognition of World Mental Health Day, InterAction is proud to share a report that provides unique information on current challenges arising from the growing social stigma surrounding COVID-19.
As you mark Mental Health Day, consider the invisible impacts of the global COVID-19 pandemic – the silent struggle to cope with stress, trauma, and insecurity. As individuals, we can treat people with more kindness and compassion. As humanitarian actors, we can work to promote physical distancing AND social connection. Community cohesion can be fostered, including the participation of the most vulnerable in all services and the delivery of information, while taking the necessary preventive measures to reduce the spread of COVID-19.
Please contact Anna Jaffe, InterAction’s Protection Program Manager, if you have any comments or questions about the report. We appreciate your comments!
