Keeping a positive outlook can aid in the improvement of the health and well-being of patients with the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), a senior psychologist at Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC) has highlighted.

According to Sarah Belouidiane, patients with COVID-19 often begin to feel depressed upon learning about their illness.

This is mainly because they are expected to be socially isolated and deprived of their regular lifestyle routines.

“Mental disorders can negatively affect a patient’s immunity and lead to increased stress when following daily news and updates of increased infections and deaths due to the virus,” she pointed out.

“There is a need to create a positive mindset for COVID-19 patients through constant reinforcement of their improving health condition and by stating examples of those who were infected but defeated the virus. This improves their emotional status and, thus, strengthens their immune system,” she underlined.

There are external and internal sources that influence thinking, the PHCC psychologist mentioned.

“That which comes from the external source, such as your five senses - the ability to hear, touch, see, taste and smell - is what activates ideas in your mind,” she said.

“For example, following news about the impact of COVID-19 can be a source of negative thinking, similar to how watching horror or emotional movies can activate thoughts of fear or despair. The olfactory senses can produce the opposite – a pleasant aroma or fragrance can activate happy memories and positive thinking, thus leading to positive feelings."

The internal source includes memories of the past and the desires and dreams for the future.

Belouidiane explained that the secret behind controlling negative thoughts is to ask 'how?' rather than 'why?’

For instance, one should avoid asking questions such as 'why am I sad, poor, afraid or a loser?'

"Rather, every morning, ask yourself: 'how can I be rich, cheerful, calm and happy?,” she said.

"The 'how' question shifts your mind’s focus from the problem to the solution. Be careful what you focus on,” Belouidiane said.

“These thoughts will expand and grow according to the ‘Law of Focus’, one of the most important laws of the subconscious mind, which covers all aspects of our life - health, money, relationships, work, etc.

“When you focus on your weaknesses - insomnia, cold, numbness, muscle pain or back pain - and if you’re always complaining about these symptoms, what you focus on and speak about will increase. In contrast, if you focus on the healthy and strong parts of your body and feel grateful for it, your health will improve, and you will feel energized and at peace.”

Belouidiane highlighted that PHCC is equipped to help patients defeat their mental challenges.

Read our exclusive interview with a COVID-19 survivor in Qatar.

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