Right now, the world is gripped with the Covid-19 pandemic and a global lockdown, with over a billion people confined to their homes. Economic recession is all but certain, and personal anxiety and panic run high. Do you think that the pandemic has led our economy into depression?
Let’s a take a look at the old scenario, the scenario ‘before Covid-19’. People had the freedom to do whatever they aspired to. They were not confined to their homes and their geographical boundaries were not limited. Suppose that a person is going through a major issue. They could meet new people, keep themselves involved in some activity and escape from their problem. Also, they could involve themselves in new activities, which would make them happy. So, one was in a slightly better position and their condition was slightly better.
However, the condition during the pandemic has changed to a great extent. People are confined to their homes. Nowadays, an increasing number of people, especially the youth, are suffering from depression. Today’s youth is vulnerable. They’re suffering through a lot — be it family problems, career pressure, relationship problems, peer pressure and what not. They are at a tender age where they do not know what is right and often do not understand whom to share such problems with.
At this tender age, they often end up taking wrong decisions. During the pandemic, we have lost our independence. Confined to our homes, the usage of mobile phones has increased. Now, people spend more of their time on social media or streaming content on OTT platforms. But these are just ways of escaping reality.
In the end, we have to face the harsh realities of life. Also, an increased usage of smartphones can make us dull. Staying at home, our creative minds are not being utilised properly. Physical activity has reduced during the lockdown and have also impacted people’s health and behaviour. Many people have no access to an income: they are helpless. Survival has become difficult for these people and they are facing mental challenges because of this.
Most people have become victims of depression during the pandemic. However, one must understand the fact that life is full of challenges. One must not lose hope, even in the worst circumstances. My message to my readers would be, “Smile more and worry less”.