Before and after Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), social and psychological changes and effects of the pandemic

Abstract

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) continues to have a profound impact on society and has changed the outlook and values of many people. Behaviors and lifestyles have changed drastically due to infection control procedures, and many social and economic losses have occurred, from which people are trying hard to readjust to. Mental health support is an important issue from the perspective of future reconstruction. Socially vulnerable group, or people who require support during disasters, are a high-risk group for mental health problems and need stronger support. In the current situation in which anxiety, fear, depression, discrimination, slander, and suicide are on the rise, leading to the fragmentation of individuals and society, it is necessary to provide appropriate and continuous social support including public assistance, mutual aid, and self-help for those who have difficulty adjusting. Although it is difficult to see the future, it is important for medical professionals to protect themselves from experiencing burnout to ensure that they can respond to situations in a calm and solemn manner, as the end of the pandemic is sure to come.