Nepal: Because of the ongoing dengue outbreak, the infection has become
the hottest topic of conversation among those living in
If you think that dengue is all about drastic weight loss,
fever, headache, and reduction in platelet count, you probably have not
considered the emotional and mental toll the fear of getting infected by dengue
has taken on us.
As human beings, we tend to place more emphasis on maintaining
our physical well-being, but we do not put the same importance on our mental
health.
We have all seen or heard of the physical toll and suffering
dengue patients go through, and this has made us worried about getting
infected. By now, many of us have also read and heard medical experts say that
symptoms worsen for those who get reinfected with dengue. All of these factors
surrounding dengue have us constantly worrying for ourselves and for our loved
ones. We are more anxious than ever, and we find ourselves constantly asking
questions like, “Have I carried my mosquito repellent cream?” “It is hot but
should I still wear full sleeves?” “What if I get reinfected with dengue?”
These unsettling questions keep playing and replaying in our minds, keeping us
locked in a vicious cycle of anxiety and stress.
Just because we are physically strong and healthy does not mean
that we can handle a high level of constant stress. To be able to deal with
mental anguish, we must be mentally and emotionally guarded. I hear many of my
clients say how anxiety leads them to think about the worst-case scenarios,
which in turn affects them so much mentally that their daily routine gets
impacted. And, if not attended to, anxiety can worsen significantly.
The last few years have been particularly stressful for us
Nepalis. The 2015 earthquakes devastated many parts of the country, and this
was followed by a border blockade that lasted for months and severely disrupted
our normal lives. The stress and anguish we experienced in 2015 were still
fresh in our minds when the Covid-19 pandemic gripped us in 2020.
Now in 2022, the dengue outbreak has many of us worried. Many
have even stopped stepping outside their homes over fear of contracting dengue.
While staying indoors might keep us safe from dengue to a certain extent, being
anxious and remaining indoors can be detrimental to our mental health. In these
stressful times, socialising with friends and families serves as a coping
mechanism.
We must adopt all necessary precautions, like applying mosquito
repellent creams and liquids, but continue our social life. Staying locked
indoors is not the solution.
Apart from socialising, make sure you take the time to meditate
and exercise. Doing so is good for both your mind and body and will aid you in
staying optimistic and positive. No matter how trying these times are, try to
stay positive and calm.
Last but not least, strictly follow health and safety protocols
to stay safe from dengue and keep your mental well-being in mind.
Dristy Moktan
kathmandupost
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