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HYDERABAD: Home isolation, prolonged hospitalisation, deaths of near and dear in the family and fear of getting infected is leading to acute psychotic episodes in Covid-19 patients and their family members. Panic attacks, anxiety disorders and depression are increasingly diagnosed among patients.
Dr M Umashankar, superintendent of the Institute of Mental Health at Erragadda, said: “The fear of getting Covid-19 infection, hearing about deaths in the family and among relatives is resulting in acute psychotic episodes and panic attacks. Keeping away from such negative thoughts, regular exercises, entertainment and other relaxation measures will help them to stay mentally healthy.”