COVID-19 Pandemic: Inducing Pan-Hysteria and Panic Disorder; An Overview

Abstract

Summary: Wuhan Municipal Health Commission, China, gave an account of a few cases of pneumonia
which were later established as cases of the Novel Coronavirus Disease by the end of December 2019. By 4th
of January, WHO reported these cases on social media and by the beginning of March WHO had declared it
as a pandemic which was preceded and followed by lockdowns in various countries and had led to a scenario
of fear and panic amidst the minds of all.
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has challenged the society in many aspects, one of them
being the psychosocial aspect. The stress due to the pandemic could produce worry and fear about health for
oneself, family members and friends. Even changes in sleeping or eating patterns, the worsening of chronic
health problems,unavailability of alcohol, tobacco or other drugs in the market due to shutting down of
manufacturing units and problems in concentration are among the possible etiologies of a precipitating panic
disorder. Containment measures such as lockdown and isolationcan also precipitate psychiatric illnesses
and morbidities such aspanic disorder, depression, anxiety and suicidal tendencies.COVID-19 may cause
or exacerbate even the existing psychiatric illnesses or existing panic disorder in individuals which could
lead to physiological symptoms like palpitations, sweating, shortness of breath and a decreased sense of
wellbeing. It gives a feeling of impending doom or danger and is followed by intense fear which can all take
place when one is facing such a pandemic.
Conclusion: The COVID-19 pandemic has not only had physical but even mental and psychosocial impacts.
New mental health challenges may arise owing to this pandemic.