Coronavirus and interpersonal violence: A need for digital mental health resources.

Abstract

Since the declaration of COVID-19 restrictions and lockdowns, countries across the world have seen an increase in reports of interpersonal violence. During these trying times, digital mental health resources tailored to interpersonal violence are needed. Through the use of online platforms such as websites, mobile applications, and social media, survivors and perpetrators alike can access tools that help them manage stressors induced by the coronavirus as well as practice emotional regulation techniques and communication strategies at home.

Changes and Compromises in Health Choices during COVID-19 Lockdown in Kathmandu Valley: A Descriptive Cross-sectional Study

“…Noteworthy is the fact that individuals with obesity are at increased risk of either chronic or acute diseases, which includes COVID-19 infection and complications. 14 The same study also reported that in Italy 3.3% of smokers decided to quit smoking 12 which contrasts our finding that 1% of the participants started smoking during lockdown. A decrease in the frequency of smoking (67.9%) and drinking (53.6%) was observed which may reflect decreased accessibility or behavioral change secondary to fear of COVID-19.…”

“…The perceived change in type of diet, availability and stockpiling of food and medication, exercise routines, personal hygiene, sleep duration, substance use, social interactions, and healthcare usages have been corroborated by many studies. 5,8,11,12 Lockdown is a social distancing measure. In a study done by Medeiros et al to evaluate the effectiveness of strict social distancing measures applied in two Chinese provinces in reducing the incidence and mortality from COVID-19, strict social distancing measures represented an effective way to slow the progression of COVID-19 epidemics.…”

“…The sample size was calculated using the formula given below: n= Z 2 x p x (1-p) / e 2 = (1.96) 2 x 0.50 x 0.50 / (0.08) 2 = 600 Where, n= required sample size, Z= 1.96 for Confidence Interval at 95%, p= Prevalence, 50% (for maximum sample size) e= margin of error as 8%…”

“…Due to its web-based nature we used the CHERRIES checklist to improve the quality of the study. 9 The study population consisted of all the individuals currently living in lockdown in Nepal. The selfadministered questionnaire was created in google form.…”

“…Isolation measures enforced to curb the pandemic have affected both the physical and mental health of individuals. [2][3][4] Demographic characteristics like age, 5 gender, 4 education, 6 household size, age of the most elderly member of the family can all influence how a family perceives the effect of COVID-19 on various aspects of health. The lockdown has led to compromises in day to day choices like food, 7 exercise, sleep8 and self-care routines.…”