The Covid-19 pandemic has impacted populations in multiple ways around the world. Fear of being infected and anxiety about an uncertain present and future has impacted mental health severely. Lockdowns have led to isolation, heightening anxiety and depression in societies and particularly in vulnerable communities. While the Covid-19 pandemic is unprecedented in scope and scale, previous studies suggest an elevated risk of suicide during such times.
The uncertain nature of the global crisis today calls for innovative responses from the psychiatric community. Psychiatrists need to be proactive in reaching out to the vulnerable sections of society. This can save lives that are lost to suicide. This guideline document discusses the issues related to suicide prevention strategies and the role of psychiatrists in the time of the pandemic.
