Effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on psychological aspects

The first reported case of a novel coronavirus-2019 (COVID-19) was in China. COVID-19 had substantial consequences on all aspects of society globally. In reaction to the mounting number of cases and deaths associated with COVID-19, global measures such as quarantines, lockdowns, and social distancing were implemented in early 2020. While these strategies may have slowed the rapid spread of the virus, they have harmed people psychologically. In a context of huge uncertainty, psychological issues and health sequelae of the COVID-19 crisis, including stress, anxiety, depression, frustration, and suicide, have progressively emerged. These psychological reactions to COVID-19 infection impair good health and well-being for all ages, specified in the third goal of Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). The achievement of SDG should parallel the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic; they should not counteract each other. In this context, short- and long-term negative effects of psychological reactions may exist, thus urgent strategies to mitigate such a burden is paramount. This chapter discusses the psychological aspects during the COVID-19 by exploring the psychological reactions to this global pandemic of the general population and those involved in the healthcare sector. Further, it explores the impact of the psychological burden on society, including the risk and protective factors. Lastly, preventative strategies to lessen this psychological burden for better health and community well-being are detailed.