Coronavirus and the effects of unemployment on mental health

We are well aware of the fact that the corona virus has killed a large number of people around the world and affected the health of countless others, but the corona virus has brought with it many more problems. Among these problems are economic hardship, uncertainty and mental illness. Corona has led to a massive increase in long-term unemployment, which has had a negative impact not only on the economy but also on people's employment, business and mental health.

The world had only speculation about the spread of the coronavirus because there was no cure or vaccine for the contagious disease at the time, so the WHO urged the world to use social media to stop the spread of the virus. Reduce the spread of the virus to control the spread of the virus. In response, many countries decided to close their offices and businesses. These precautionary measures lasted for more than a year and resulted in the loss of millions of jobs.

Long-term unemployment causes professionals to lose technical and professional grasp due to inattention to their work, and they need training and time to regain their old skills once the industries are revived. For example, due to the closure of certain industries, employers were cut off from their professional networks, creativity, management, technical operations and fieldwork which not only psychologically affects their professional life. It also affects the performance of technical matters and financial affordability. As a result, young people who were inclined towards these fields and had the ability to perform better were severely affected. The decline in employment and training opportunities has led to a decline in the specific skills of skilled and employed professionals.

Pakistan is one of the developing countries facing major problems such as poverty, economic pressures and high unemployment. According to a 2020 report, Pakistan's labor market declined by 13% in the April-June quarter, leaving 27 million people unemployed. Further analysis of the data shows that this trend was more pronounced in the industrial cities where most of the labor force is more dependent on industries as opposed to the rural population which is connected with farming and agriculture. Statistics estimate that 3 out of 4 people in urban areas are affected by restrictions and closure of business facilities or shopping malls / markets.

Research shows that there is a strong link between unemployment and mental health. Unemployed segments of the population are more likely to have mental health problems, including depression, anxiety, and an increase in chronic illnesses (heart disease, hypertension, and muscle disorders). Unemployment and insecurity adversely affect people's social relationships and behavior.

During the sanctions imposed by the Corona virus, a significant increase in domestic and gender-based violence has been reported across the country. One of the main reasons for this increase is that the head of the household is unemployed or insecure about his job, and unable to support his family. This tendency affects the whole family, social structure and family relationships.

Uncertainty is on the rise, especially among young people. The recent suicide of a 28-year-old man by jumping from the third floor of a shopping mall in Karachi highlighted the seriousness of mental health due to job insecurity and lack of employment opportunities. The deceased's mother revealed that the deceased was unemployed and suffering from depression which led to her suicide. This incident is a moment of reflection for our society, government and various sections to take action for the people who are facing mental health problems. The tragedy underscores the importance of launching awareness campaigns for the mentally disturbed. In this regard, an awareness campaign has been launched which is working to provide free counseling to the people regarding psychological problems. The awareness campaign is called "Caution, the only salvation" and under this campaign a helpline called "Idea" has been introduced where psychologists provide free advice and guidance on mental illness. It is a welcome development but more steps need to be taken to light a candle of hope in these troubled times and motivate them towards a better life.