Experiences of Mental Health Practitioners and Clients during COVID Pandemic in India

The study attempted to understand perspectives of mental health practitioners (Phase 1) and changes in presenting symptoms of clients with pre-existing mental health disorders during the pandemic (Phase 2). Semi structured questionnaires were used to obtain data from practitioners and case study method was used to study the client stories. In phase 1, several emerging themes were identified: changing roles of mental health services; challenges of online and face-to-face mental health services; need for new and evolved approaches to mental health services; and impact on mental health professionals. In phase 2, it was observed that symptoms worsened in dysfunctional family environments. Those with stronger family support systems, those using creative arts to express themselves and sought therapy saw an improvement.