COVID-19 & Social Anxiety: When to seek help?

Dr Mazin Mohiyudheen, Specialist Emergency Medicine, Aster Al Raffah Hospital, Ghubra

The COVID-19 pandemic has undoubtedly increased stress in people in almost all spheres of their life. People with social anxiety have been affected the most by this change.

People with social anxiety may find temporary relief because they are able to avoid social interactions due to social distancing and encouragement from public authorities to stay at home.

However, this temporary relief may also affect them negatively when they have to face situations they would like to avoid.

Other reasons that may increase their anxieties may include - fear of contracting the virus, concerns about access to food and increasing financial strains.

To avoid such anxieties it would be in their best interests to conduct social interactions via calls/video conferences and also meet people by adhering to social distancing guidelines.

It is essential to seek professional help when these anxieties increase to a level of extreme stress that may cause trouble sleeping or cause difficulties in performing daily activities.

Aster’s Serenity App can act as your friend in coping with extreme anxiety, stress or any sort of mental impact.