Mental Health and Well-Being during COVID-19 in the developing world: A Review of Sub-Saharan Africa and Asia

Abstract

In view of the latest COVID-19 pandemic's unprecedented major global health crisis, it is extremely vital to consider the mental effect of this rising and formidable threat on the life of humanity, which has significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. Previous research indicates that people affected by COVID-19 can have a high burden of issues with mental health, including depression, anxiety disorders, stress, sleep disorders, emotional illness, signs of post-traumatic stress, and suicidal behavior. In the background of the COVID-19 pandemic, as the outbreak entails a large-scale change in behavior and further, creates major psychological burdens on individuals, there is a growing concern to resolve the mental health issues of the general population. This review article attempts to highlight different mental health challenges faced during COVID-19 by multiple individuals. In certain settings, virtual mental health systems should be set up, and social media should be used to provide education and networking tools for mental health. Psychopathological issues in various communities should be emphasized in future epidemiological research.