Most of the research points to negative psychological effects including post-traumatic stress symptoms, confusion, and anger. Among healthcare workers, being quarantined was significantly associated with avoidance behaviours, such as minimising direct contact with patients and not reporting for work. “Three studies showed that longer durations of quarantine were associated with poorer mental health – specifically, post-traumatic stress symptoms avoidance behaviours, and anger,” the Lancet paper states. And one study found that those quarantined for more than 10 days showed significantly higher post-traumatic stress symptoms than those quarantined for less than 10 days. There is a natural tendency to over-consume media when we’re faced with threats like coronavirus – we crave answers and reassurance.

Source: The Irish Times March 23, 2020 06:00 UTC