Mahima Swaroopa, P Saranya
Corona virus disease (Covid-19) pandemic is creating a widespread panic. Virus-related inflammation has long been known to increase the risk of developing several types of psychiatric disorders including bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder and schizophrenia. "Viral Pathogens may disrupt neurodevelopment and affect the immune mechanisms at key developmental stages. Chronic infection with any of the viruses can lead to raised interferon-alpha levels, proinflammatory cytokines known to cause Major depressive disorder associated. In some people, viral infections can cause symptoms, such as irrational fears, that are typically associated with an anxiety disorder and have been found to not only precede but also contribute to the risk of developing social phobias. Hence, Corona virus disease (COVID-19) belonging to the family Coronaviridae may also be related to the risk of developing psychiatric disorders like depression and anxiety similar to other viral diseases. Hence more holistic approaches to deal with Corona Virus Disease (COVID-19) both emotional and physical well-being are getting equal importance.
