Healthcare staff face mental health issues as they fight COVID-19

Dr Ranjith Veeramani, senior assistant surgeon at Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital, who has been posted in COVID-19 ward for the past few weeks, said the pandemic has impacted the lives of the doctors like never before.

“I lose sleep to worrisome thought that this is never going to end. I live away from my family. It is stressful to think what if they get into any trouble and how I will be able to help. If I get affected, my family will be

worried. Many of my colleagues are infected by patients who were not screened. Though seeing sick people and their suffering is not new for us doctors, it is stressful to see that among our colleagues and family members,” he said.

Some of the senior doctors at government hospitals now work for about 12 hours or more. A senior doctor at Government Stanley Medical College Hospital said he lost about 7 kg and has been battling sleeplessness, fatigue and trauma due to the constant work pressure.

“I have not been able to meet my parents and siblings for the past two months, which gives me a sense of loneliness. We don’t know how long is this going to continue. M

y family is the one that keeps me happy and in a good mental space. Some of the medical students who are in their final year have exams scheduled and feel academic pressure as well, which increases the mental strain,” said the doctor. Pushpa K, a nurse at one of the government hospitals, has to remain in quarantine for two weeks before being able to see her school-going children who have never stayed away from her so far. “More than the physical tiredness, the mental strain and restlessness of staying away from home are more difficult,” said Pushpa.

Dr Vivian Kapil, psychiatrist at SIMS Hospital said the surge in number of patients with COVID-19, increased workload and being away from families and friends take a toll on the mental health of healthcare workers, which results in psychological distress, anxiety, insomnia and other issues. “Even though it may not be possible to be in close proximity with family at times like this, it is essential for the doctors to stay connected with them digitally. Taking short breaks, including even power naps, spending time with colleagues who make things lighter with positivity, will help reenergise them,” said Dr Vivian.