COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS- CoV-2). While governments around the world are acting to contain and end this pandemic, the strain on health, social and economic systems in all countries is unprecedented. Not only is the COVID-19 pandemic a threat to physical health; it also affects mental health. During a crisis it is natural for individuals to feel fear, sadness and anxiety. Indeed, fear from the virus is spreading even faster than the virus itself. In the current crisis, people can be fearful about becoming ill and dying, losing livelihoods and loved ones, and being socially excluded and separated from families and caregivers. People who test positive for COVID-19 have to cope with anxiety about their condition, physical discomfort, separation from loved ones, isolation and possibly stigma.
