The current COVID-19 outbreak is spurring
depression, fear, anxiety, and stress on a societal level. On an individual
level, it may exacerbate anxiety and psychosis-like symptoms as well as lead to
non-specific mental issues (e.g., mood problems, sleep issues, phobia-like
behaviors, panic-like symptoms). Head and neck cancer patients (HNCP)
(including laryngectomees) are more vulnerable to these psychological issues as
well the viral infection. Laryngectomees may experience increased social
isolation and loneliness.
Contributing to these are the
difficulties in get medical and diagnostic care, prescription drugs, and
medical supplies, and the economic situation.
HNCP with mental health issues such as obsessive compulsive disorders (OCD), post-traumatic
stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety and depressive disorders, and paranoia may experience
exacerbation of their symptoms.
HNCP can be proactive and alleviate some
of their psychological vulnerability by:
- Reaching out and seeking support from mental health professionals (i.e., psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers)
- Getting medical and other supplies delivered to one’s residence
- Engaging in healthy distractions such as reading, watching movies, taking walks, exercising, and learning a new skill
- Developing a routine
- Obtaining information from reliable sources
- Curbing media exposure to certain times in the day
- Being aware of what is anxiety and what is reality in one’s thoughts and conversations
- Following guidelines (i.e., using prescribed handwashing methods, avoiding touching the face, avoiding hugging and shaking hands, staying at home and contacting one’s medical provider when experiencing medical problems)
- Connecting with family and friends through the internet, social media, video calls and phone
Following these guidelines can assist
HNCP navigate through the corona virus pandemic.
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