Unemployment, depression on rise amid coronavirus outbreak

The number of coronavirus infection is increasing as days go on. The number of lonely people is increasing day by day. Apart from this, the number of unemployed people is also on the rise due to the closure of mills and businesses institutions one by one.

Due to these reasons, depression among coronavirus infected people, their relatives and unemployed people is increasing alarmingly, experts say.

When asked, Psychology Professor Dr Azizur Rahman said, ‘Coronavirus has left people in a state of uncertainty. Many are spending days in crisis, both family and social life. The tendency is increasing as days go on. Many are losing jobs. Besides, many are in fear of losing jobs. This will increase depression. At this circumstance, the government should make a work plan and lead the work according to specific plan. This will reduce unemployment and will ensure job security. However, there is no substitute for staying healthy.

Professor Dr Mahfuza Khanam, Chairperson of Psychology Department of Dhaka University, said many are suffering loneliness after being infected with coronavirus. Again, many have become unemployed as they lost their jobs. These incidents may naturally put a person in different type of worries. In this case, everyone must be treated humanely.

DU Sociology Department Professor Dr Nehal Karim said the government is taking initiative from time to time. But none of them can be implemented successfully. Because people are hungry. Instability prevails in their minds. If these human crises are not solved, social dispute as well as crime will increase. So you have to plan right now.

Dr Md Gausul Azam, medical officer of Neurosurgery Department of Dhaka Medical College (DMC), also founder of web-based treatment provider ‘Doctor Bari’, said loneliness is major problem in this coronavirus situation.

Prof Dr M M A Salauddin Kawsar, associate professor of Psychology Department of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) said, ‘The first thing is that its control is not favorable. So, we must be aware of this virus and it is very much important. Secondly, we have to do what we like best to do to stay well.’

Even then, if someone suffers from depression, he must visit a doctor for medical help, he said.

Dhaka/Yeamin/AKA