The sheer unexpectedness of the rise in Covid-19 cases has caused a lot distress and chaos all over the country. Mental health has been compromised, once again. Stress levels are running high. In circumstances like these, a sense of all-pervasive doom and helplessness is not unusual. So what to do?

We spoke to psychologists and counsellors to get insights about dealing with mental stress as the Second Wave wreaks havoc all across the country. Here's what they had to say.

IT IS OKAY TO FEEL UPSET

Dr Lubhana Malik, who is a psychotherapist, shared how this new wave has brought about a bigger mental strain with it than last year did, "The Second Wave has not only seen a spike in Covid-19 cases, but also anger levels, frustration and low feelings in individuals. Even people who had been championing and coping with the stress, are really feeling pulled down now. This is because we often deny our feelings and push them under the carpet. Instead, we need to accept that it is okay to feel upset, it is okay to take some time off. It is important to validate one's feelings. Change always brings discomfort; however, all change is not bad".

"Things will get better, but you shouldn't force yourself into thinking it will happen in the blink of an eye. Find comforting techniques for yourself," she suggested.

"For some people it could be reading, or a quick chat with a loved one. Another important thing is to not let uncertainties overwhelm us. We must stick to what is in our control and act accordingly. As human beings, we adapt very quickly to a new normal after a small period of discomfort. For instance, despite fatalities related to air/road travel, we knowledgeably accept them and minimise the risk by taking precautions such as using seat belts, following speed limits. Similarly, being responsible citizens, we must follow all Covid protocols and get vaccinated when our turn comes. Fear of fatality is bogging people down. However, one needs to realise that fear itself raises our physiological responses and reduces our immunity, leading to a Catch-22 situation. Instead, we need to remain as calm as possible and cross the bridge when we get there. Remember, as a society, we are all in this together, and we shall make it through."

STAY CONNECTED, NOT ALOOF

Psychologist Dr Sarika Boora suggested one look for signs within their body and routine. "Changes in sleep pattern, loss of appetite, losing interest in things, these are all signs people can notice in themselves. Our body also shows physical reactions such as headaches, digestive problems, feeling irritated, when things are not okay."

"I would say, keep yourselves from constantly checking the news. Overdose of news and the statistics shown can have a bad impact on one's mental health. Try to stay a bit more active at home, because it will keep you busy. It is also very important to be connected with people who bring you comfort and have your best interest in mind. Try not to stay aloof. Talking always helps."

WATCH OUT AND REACH OUT

Counselling psychologist Dr Preeti Shaw agrees that this new wave has hit us hard, just when things had started to get better. "Everyone was already fighting a lot of odds, and the sudden spike has hit everyone's motivation hard. There has been a sense of diminishing control over our future, and life in general. That has increased multiple times more in this second wave. All of this came very unexpectedly, and that is what makes it worse. I would strongly suggest - watch out for any unusual signs. Like a loss of interest in what you actually liked doing, is a way of your body telling you to pay more attention to your emotional needs. Physical isolation must not lead to emotional isolation. Agreed that there has been a paradigm shift in the way we lead our lives, but we should prioritise mental and physical health over everything. Once you realise that things are making you uncomfortable, make it a point to reach out for help. Professionals and personal contacts can always help you. Never let it spiral out of control."

Dr Shaw also urged people to stop blaming themselves for things not working out. "What is the definition of enough during a pandemic?" she asked. "I think a sense of disappointment has engulfed people because they feel they are not doing enough. If you are blaming yourself for not getting it all right in the first go, please pause. Pause and understand, your possibilities have diminished to a very great extent due to the pandemic. Don't be hard on yourself for not knowing, for not controlling it all. Because the truth is that you cannot control so many things right now due to the external limitations."

DON'T TRUST THAT WHATSAPP FORWARD

"The more informed you are about something, the more you feel you have it under control", says neuropsychologist Tejasvini Sinha. "So, knowing that a doctor in the society can be contacted, or knowing what medicine to take in case of some symptoms, can bring a lot of comfort to people. Don't rely on WhatsApp forwards, because most of them are far from true. Checking updates too frequently can really overwhelm you, so maybe just once in a while, check statistics from an authentic source, if you really must. Lastly, I would just advise, please take care of your body and have a routine. Try to help people virtually, because that will make you feel good too. Have a microscopic vision of life and be grateful for your blessings. The macroscopic reality of the world is hurtful, and we are hard-wired to feel guilt and regret a little too much. But try to shift your focus on what you can control, how you can be happy, and spread happiness around."

As of April 20, India has 2.59 lakh recorded Covid cases.