Mental health and the role of social workers and community workers during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) period

Abstract

Social workers play a significant role in supporting vulnerable families and individuals during difficult time. Social work as a profession is a frontline occupation that is forced to deal with the complex and difficult issues of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Lockdown, self-isolation, the loss of loved ones, the loss of work, and dealing with family issues and children while working at home are emotionally challenging for many. This virus has raised high levels of anxiety, fear, confusion, frustration, hopeless and uncertainty feelings among many people internationally. Many people were isolated from their families and friends as well as from community. Governments in many countries brought in health measures to control the spread of coronavirus. These measures included quarantine, lockdown, social distancing/physical distancing, isolation, travel restrictions, masks, ventilators, respirators, personal protective clothing (PPE), online/remote services, containment, mitigation, sanitisers, flattening the curve, inflammatory syndrome and herbal/organic treatments. In addition to the loss of social connection, the loss of livelihoods and income are psychologically torturing. There were many lives lost because of coronavirus around the world how many. The impacts of coronavirus have been felt across the health, economic, social, and mental health sectors. Social workers were viewed first people to support people while they were going through difficulties. The situation analysis of emergency lockdown in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia demonstrated role of social workers in supporting vulnerable individuals and families during difficult time. The study shows serious impact of lockdown such as mental health, social and economic consequences on people. The impact of COVID-19 lockdown was clearly observed in relation to mental health, social and economic impacts on people. Many residents were psychological impacted and found themselves in tears, frustration, enraged, powerless, hopeless with lack of support. This analysis argues that social workers should be prepared and supported with enough resources to support people during emergency situations. Therefore, the role of social workers and community development workers is very critical in supporting and preparing vulnerable community groups, individuals, and families to cope with emergency events when they emerge. The case example of the COVID-19 emergency lockdown is the lockdown of high-rise towers in the city of Melbourne in Australia. Many people have been seeking support from social workers for emotional support as they are enraged and frustrated by the lockdown.