Characteristics and challenges of psychological first aid in China during the COVID-19 outbreak

Abstract

Characteristics and challenges of psychological first aid in China during the COVID-19 outbreak With the outbreak of the 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) (Wang et al., 2020), mental health professionals in China actively participated in combating the disease, especially in the psychological first aid. There are several features in the present psychological first aid which are different from previous rescue works in China such as the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) in 2003 and the Wenchuan Earthquake in Sichuan in 2008. There are some reflections that are useful for us to prepare for the future as well.

Addressing potential impact of COVID-19 pandemic on physical and mental health of elite athletes

“…have also been shown to cause emotional distress and psychological disorders in athletes (Reardon et al, 2019). Due to the multi-dimensional impact of pandemic-related consequences for elite athletes, as a unique population, analytical studies to identify circulating bio markers, time-course of effect and negative impact, and response to coping strategies or treatment interventions (e.g., Psychological First Aid intervention) (Yang et al, 2020) might be useful, and in line with the bio-psycho-social approach.…”

The Psychological Aspects of COVID-19: A Review

“…38 Online consultation through telemedicine is the best option in the era of digitalisation. 25 Internet and media, the fourth pillar of the society, are the prime source of information. They play a vital role in this…”

“…1. Letter to the editors: Among the 15 'Letters to the Editor' selected, 14,17,18,22,[24][25][26][27][28][29][30][31][32][33][34] 5 are from China, 4 from India, 3 from Brazil and 1 each from Italy, Pakistan and Japan. One letter from China discusses about the psychological impact of this crisis on the elderly population, where 37.1% are reported to suffer from depression and anxiety.…”

“…24 Yang et al highlights the psychological first-aid interventions of China and compares with previous disasters. 25 Yao et al considers the effects of the pandemic on people with mental health disorders. 26 Articles from Brazil converse about the psychiatric and emotional impact of the outbreak, 18,22 as well as the deteriorating mental condition of refugees.…”

Will the COVID-19 outbreak bring the health care system and health industry to a new era in China?

“…Thirdly, the outbreak will further fuel a boom in online health services. During the pandemic, rapid response to the quarantine measure and lockdown, online consultations, lectures, training, and outreach medical services via telemedicine platforms or smart-phone applications provide convenient access to medical and mental health service for the public (Jianzhong et al, 2020). These online medical services will further change the health-seeking behavior of the general public.…”