Article content If COVID doesn’t get us this bitter winter, confinement syndrome and the “diseases of despair” just might. What are these maladies? Try refreshing your browser, or Staples: If COVID doesn't get us, confinement syndrome and 'diseases of despair' just might Back to video Confinement syndrome is your elderly parent or grandparent in a seniors home or in long-term care, confined to their room, able to see few outside people for months at a time, and having their hope disappear and frail health fail. The diseases of despair are your spouse, your friend or your child suddenly finding themselves isolated during lockdown, bringing on stress, sadness, even depression and possibly three related killers, opioid and alcohol abuse and suicide. Canada has had an increasing rate of opioid deaths during the lockdown. Mental health crises centres have seen huge increases in calls.