The numbers are still rising. Close to two million people have been infected with the coronavirus around the world and almost 120,000 people have died.
But the number of infections is slowing down. Italy,the epicenter of the pandemic last month, is starting to ease restrictions, along with Spain, another country which saw more than 17,000 deaths. Here in America, states including New York, are discussing the relaxation of the social distancing guidelines.
The forced isolation, considered crucial to stopping the virus, along with high unemployment and shut down businesses, is bringing the U.S. economy to a grinding halt but also causing mental health issues. We spoke with therapist Kathryn Smerling and asked about the psychological effect of quarantine.
To Discuss:
- Dr. Sten Vermund is an epidemiologist and Dean of Yale’s School of Public Health
- Sery Kim is an attorney and a former senior adviser in the Trump administration
- Joseph Williams is the senior news editor for U.S. News and World Report
For More:
Beyond acute stress and anxiety, psychologists say coronavirus-related confinement is beginning to trigger deeper troubles, including depression and compulsive disorders https://t.co/munkjPSWtG
— The Wall Street Journal (@WSJ) April 12, 2020
Creator of influential coronavirus model predicts a second wave if U.S reopens by May 1 https://t.co/T0lgJXgspp
— The Washington Post (@washingtonpost) April 12, 2020
New York region explores reopening as coronavirus cases 'plateau' https://t.co/EyQcdHfMAy
— BBC News (World) (@BBCWorld) April 13, 2020
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