Since Malaysia government has imposed Movement Control Order (MCO) from March 18 nationwide to curb the spread of the Covid-19 infection, we have to stay at home for the upcoming weeks.

Isolation, physical distancing, information overload, closure of business and workplaces, the rise of the unemployment rate, panic over the virus could be a recipe for anxiety and depression.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that the measures that many countries are taking can impact on people's mental health negatively.

  
The director of the European branch of the WHO, Hans Kluge said that it is important to consider the effects of this coronavirus crisis on the mental health of the people while giving psychological support for them.

"It is essential to address the public mental health of people during the following weeks," Mr Kluge said.

Behavioural Psychologies Virgine De Vos said that this could result in the warning of depression or lack of engagement in the following weeks.

  
WHO Mental Health expert Aiysha Malik said that children's mental health could be affected as well due to school closures. 

Ms Malik said that they are likely to experience what adults are experiencing, such as worry, anxiety and fear.

She added that the attitude of the parents is important during this period.

"If the parents show that they are anxious that will have a negative impact on the children's behaviour,"  She said.

  
>>> If you or someone you know is going through something difficult or struggling with thoughts of suicide or self-harm, you're not alone. Helplines can provide free, confidential and immediate support. Use [Befrienders Malaysia] to find one near you. <<<

Read more at [https://euobserver.com/coronavirus/147903]