The spike in the number of people tested positive for Covid-19 has induced stress and anxiety among many. In an attempt to help those battling depression, fear panic and other issues, VPS Healthcare has associated with Cadabam’s Group, a renowned psycho-social rehabilitation center in India, to offer online mental health support for all in the UAE. The healthcare provider has now opened “VPS Cadabams Mindtalk”, an online service.
Imposition of stricter measures such as confinement to rooms, physical distancing, quarantining, travel restrictions and more have pushed many into depression. Also, there are cases where people manifesting any symptoms such as mild flu or cough turn panic, fearing they might have contracted the virus.
Even World Health Organisation has said that the pandemic may be stressful for people and mental health support should be ensured. “Fear and anxiety about a disease can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions in adults and children. Coping with stress will make you, the people you care about, and your community stronger,” read a statement by the US Center for Disease Control and Prevention.
The online mental health support system set up by VPS Healthcare will address the needs of these people and help them handle anxiety, fear panic and depression during these testing times with the help of psychologists. Initially, the 24*7 online support system will avail the services of a dedicated team of psychologists who will be attending to each person through video conferencing.
The extensively experienced psychologists can handle any cases related to addiction medicine, child and adolescent psychiatry, geriatric psychiatry and adult psychiatry. The services can be availed by reaching out to toll free number 8005546 to schedule an appointment.
The psychologists can also be reached through the official website of VPS Healthcare (www.vpshealth.com). The website has options for people to undergo a pre-evaluation test through answering a questionnaire. People who undergo the pre-evaluation test can book an appointment with the psychologists for online consultation.
Dr. Reena Thomas, clinical psychologist at Medeor Hospital, Dubai, a unit of VPS Healthcare, said it is natural that stricter measures are in place as part of the efforts to contain the viral infection may trigger depression, anxiety and panic attacks among many. “Some people may become hopeless or those with psychological issues may see their condition worsening during these times. VPS Cadabams Mindtalk provide care and solutions to the problems suffered by people through online. This would be significantly helpful for patients as they do not have to visit a hospital. We hope these services will help the people in these distressing situations.”
Dr. Shajir Gaffar, CEO VPS Healthcare (Dubai and Northern Emirates), said that being a responsible healthcare provider, it is our duty that we support and give care to people during the pandemic. “Many including adults and children are cut-off from their regular lives. Our services can be availed by those who require the help and guidance of a psychologist to handle these situations.”
