ABSTRACT
The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted global mental health, particularly in Vietnam, where the consequences include increased casualties, social lockdowns, unemployment, and isolation While psychological support has been extended to patients and healthcare workers, the mental health of the general public requires urgent attention This research paper reviews existing literature on the prevalence of depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other psychological distress symptoms among the Vietnamese population since the outbreak began Utilizing secondary quantitative research and data from international journals and WHO reports, the study follows PRISMA guidelines and includes additional relevant studies sourced from Google Scholar Findings indicate notable differences in mental health issues between Vietnam and other countries, attributed to Vietnam's effective COVID-19 prevention measures in 2020 The psychological effects of the pandemic, such as post-traumatic stress, depression, and anxiety linked to quarantine and social distancing, are becoming increasingly evident, while the research also highlights Vietnam's efforts to enhance mental well-being at various levels.
INTRODUCTION
The psychological reactions of the public during infectious disease outbreaks significantly influence the spread of the disease and contribute to emotional distress and social disorder In Vietnam, however, mental health resources are often insufficiently allocated to address the psychological impacts of pandemics While prioritizing immediate health concerns like testing and patient care is understandable, mental health issues are frequently overlooked, despite their increasing prevalence Research on SARS-CoV survivors revealed a 58.9% incidence of psychiatric disorders, with 25% experiencing PTSD and 15.6% suffering from depression Similar psychosocial effects have been observed during the Covid-19 pandemic, with rising rates of anxiety and depression These findings underscore the need for improved mental health care strategies in Vietnam and beyond, to better support populations affected by infectious diseases.
Development Economics – Group 10 download by : skknchat@gmail.com
LITERATURE REVIEW
C AUSES OF M ENTAL HEALTH
Research indicates that while the precise causes of most mental illnesses remain unknown, they often arise from a complex interplay of social, genetic, traumatic, and infectious factors Both biological and non-biological elements contribute to the development of these conditions.
1.1 Biological Causes of Mental Disorders
Some mental illnesses have been linked to abnormal functioning of nerve cell circuits or pathways that connect particular brain regions Nerve cells within these brain
Development economics explores the impact of neurotransmitters on brain function, highlighting how adjustments through medications, psychotherapy, and medical interventions can enhance the efficiency of brain circuits Additionally, research indicates that defects or injuries in specific brain regions are associated with various mental health conditions Other biological factors also play a significant role in the development of mental illnesses.
Mental illnesses can have a hereditary component, indicating that individuals with a family history of mental health issues may be at a higher risk of developing similar conditions This genetic susceptibility is influenced by multiple genes and their interactions with environmental factors, making each person's experience unique, even among identical twins Consequently, while one may inherit a predisposition to mental illness, it does not guarantee its development The onset of mental illness typically results from a complex interplay of genetic factors and external influences, such as stress, trauma, or abuse, which can trigger the condition in those who are genetically predisposed.
Certain infections can lead to brain damage and exacerbate mental health issues, such as pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorder (PANDAS), which is associated with Streptococcus bacteria This condition has been linked to the onset of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and other mental illnesses in children, characterized by persistent unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions).
Defects in or injury to certain areas of the brain have also been linked to some mental illnesses.
Research indicates that disruptions during early fetal brain development or birth-related trauma, such as oxygen deprivation to the brain, may contribute to the onset of conditions like autism spectrum disorder.
1.2 Non-biological Causes of Mental Disorders
Though the AIDS epidemic is a global crisis, the degree of its impact varies dramatically for different regions of the world, and developing nations bearing the burnt of the burden.
One insufficiently explored aspect of the HIV/AIDS burden is its complicated relationship to mental health Mental disorders related to cognitive impairment,
Development economics examines how factors such as substance abuse and personality traits can increase the likelihood of HIV infection Additionally, living with HIV/AIDS can trigger various psychological issues and psychiatric conditions due to the associated challenges and circumstances.
According to a 2018 study by UNAIDS, the prevalence of HIV among individuals with severe mental disorders ranges from 1.5% in Asia to 19% in Africa Additionally, those living with HIV often face mental health challenges that can diminish their quality of life and hinder their ability to seek healthcare, adhere to treatment, and maintain ongoing care Research across 38 countries reveals that 15% of adults and 25% of adolescents with HIV experience depression or feelings of being overwhelmed, which may impede their adherence to antiretroviral therapy Furthermore, HIV treatment can lead to various central nervous system side effects, including depression, nervousness, euphoria, hallucinations, and psychosis, with studies in Africa indicating a 24% prevalence of depression among individuals living with HIV.
In a conference about Mental Health and the Global Development, the World Health Organization asserts that the mental health consequences of AIDS are
HIV/AIDS patients often face significant emotional challenges, including anger, guilt, fear, denial, and despair Research indicates that 38 to 73 percent of individuals living with HIV/AIDS will encounter at least one psychiatric disorder during their lifetime, with many experiencing multiple disorders These psychiatric conditions can be categorized into four distinct types, highlighting the complex mental health needs of this population.
• problems that emerge from life circumstances
Situations that can contribute to mental health problems for people living with HIV include:
• Having trouble getting mental health services
• Experiencing a loss of social support, resulting in isolation
• Experiencing a loss of employment or worries about being able to perform at work
• Having to tell others about an HIV diagnosis
• Managing HIV medicines and medical treatment
• Dealing with loss, including the loss of relationships or the death of loved ones
• Facing stigma and discrimination associated with HIV/AIDS
HIV predominantly impacts society's most vulnerable and marginalized groups, who often face heightened mental health challenges, according to Michel Sidibé, Executive Director of UNAIDS He emphasizes that by merging HIV and mental health services, we can effectively provide essential care and life-saving support to a larger number of individuals in need.
Development Economics – Group 10 download by : skknchat@gmail.com
In any population, 1-3% are diagnosed with a psychiatric disorder, but this number can rise in conflict situations due to PTSD, substance abuse, and depression linked to stress Additionally, 30-40% may experience non-classified psychosocial symptoms like sleeplessness, irritability, and hypervigilance, which can escalate and disrupt daily functioning, leading to issues such as domestic violence, criminal behavior, and school dropouts Furthermore, following traumatic events, many individuals may endure transient symptoms like nightmares and anxiety, which typically diminish in intensity and frequency over time.
Insecurity lies at the heart of every conflict, leading to fractured social ties and the displacement of around 37 million refugees and internally displaced people globally This instability disrupts essential social services such as health care and education, rendering the stateless and displaced unable to work or engage in productive activities Consequently, many face a descent into poverty or become reliant on humanitarian aid due to weak social safety nets Moreover, the traumatic experiences associated with conflict, including the loss of loved ones and exposure to violence, contribute to significant mental health challenges, as evidenced by studies conducted in regions such as the Thai-Cambodian border, Algeria, Gaza, and Uganda.
Development Economics – Group 10 download by : skknchat@gmail.com
Country Study Population % Affected Authors and Year
Thai 993 Cambodian 15% PTSD Mollica et
Gaza Strip 550 torture survivors 20% PTSD El Sarraj et al., 1996 Algeria, 3,047 refugees,
Psychopathology: De Jong et Cambodia, internally displaced
17% among non-traumatized vs al., 2001 persons (IDPs), and
Ethiopia post conflict survious and Gaza 44% of those who experienced violence
Uganda IDPs Trauma Group: Muller et
Research indicates a significant correlation between substance use disorders (SUD) and mental health conditions, with approximately 50% of individuals diagnosed with a mental illness also developing a SUD at some point in their lives, and vice versa.
Data show high rates of comorbid substance use disorders and anxiety disorders
Mental disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder frequently co-occur with substance use disorders Additionally, these mental health issues are often associated with conditions like depression, bipolar disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), psychotic illnesses, borderline personality disorder, and antisocial personality disorder.
Development Economics – Group 10 download by : skknchat@gmail.com
Source: Trauma, War and Violence Public Mental Health in a Socio-Cultural Context, edited by Joop de
5% Anxiety Disorder Depression or PTSD
58 did not experience 62% General Anxiety Disorder trau ma
71% Major Depressive Disorder Non-trauma Group:
No personality disorder Patients with schizophrenia have higher rates of alcohol, tobacco, and drug use disorders than the general population.
The overlap between serious mental illness (SMI) and substance use disorders (SUD) is significant, as indicated by data from a large nationally representative sample Individuals with mental, personality, and substance use disorders face a heightened risk of nonmedical prescription opioid use Notably, 43 percent of those in SUD treatment for nonmedical use of prescription painkillers also exhibit symptoms or diagnoses of mental health disorders, especially depression and anxiety.
The 2022-2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) state data tables are available in various formats, offering estimates for 38 substance use and mental health measures categorized by age group These estimates utilize a small area estimation (SAE) methodology, integrating state-level NSDUH survey data from the civilian, noninstitutionalized population aged 12 and older with multiple local data sources Recent reports highlight mental health data for Hispanic/Latino and Asian subgroups, as well as key behavioral health indicators based on sexual identity among adolescents aged 12 to 17 The latest updates were made on February 19, 2025, with publication dates for various reports spanning from November 2024 to early 2025.
I NDICATORS FOR MEASURING M ENTAL H EALTH
In 2012, the Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC) launched "Changing Directions, Changing Lives: The Mental Health Strategy for Canada," emphasizing the importance of improved data collection to enhance mental health services The Strategy highlights the necessity of a comprehensive set of indicators to enable jurisdictions to track their progress in transforming mental health systems and outcomes The MHCC has identified 55 indicators that assess mental health across various age groups, including children, youth, adults, and seniors, focusing on different settings and the services and supports utilized by individuals experiencing mental health challenges.
2.1.1 Individual hospitalized for more than 30 days in a year
It is the proportion of individuals hospitalized for a mental illness that spent a total of 30 days or more of the year in hospital
While the majority of individuals with mental illness do not require hospitalization annually, those who are admitted benefit significantly from accessible community care and housing Effective coordination between community and hospital services is crucial, as it can result in a high percentage of time spent outside of hospital settings Therefore, when adequate community care is in place, the number of patients hospitalized for more than 30 days in a year should remain low.
Over 10% of individuals discharged from the hospital after treatment for mental illness are readmitted within 30 days, a rate that has remained stable for the past four years This readmission rate for mental health conditions parallels that of several physical health issues.
2.1.2 Unmeet need for mental health care among people with mental disorders
It is the percentage of Canadians aged 15 years or older with mental disorders that reported, in 2012, there was a time they needed mental health care but did not receive care.
Timely access to mental health care is crucial for promoting recovery and preventing the deterioration of mental health issues, which can result in greater disability and additional harm.
In 2012 Canada found that 26.3% of people who were identified as having mental disorders report that they did not receive care they needed for their emotions,
In the field of Development Economics, a significant observation is that individuals often choose to manage their mental health issues independently rather than seeking professional help The predominant reason cited for this decision is a preference for self-management, which may stem from a genuine desire to recover without external assistance However, this inclination could also be influenced by fears or concerns related to the stigma surrounding mental health care, highlighting the need for increased awareness and support in addressing these barriers.
2.1.3 One-year rate of repeat hospitalization for persons with a mental illness
In 2011/2012, the percentage of individuals aged 15 and older who experienced three or more hospitalizations related to mental illness, among those who had at least one mental health-related hospital stay within a year, highlights the prevalence of severe mental health issues in this demographic.
Frequent hospital admissions within a single year can be necessary for individuals with severe mental health disorders; however, they may also indicate inadequate discharge planning or deficiencies in community care services The Canadian Institute for Health Information monitors repeat hospitalizations as a crucial indicator of healthcare system performance.
A cross-sectional study in Europe reveals that divorced individuals generally experience poorer somatic and mental health compared to their married counterparts, facing elevated levels of distress, depression, and anxiety, alongside frequent somatic issues that further strain their mental well-being These disparities can be largely attributed to unfavorable socioeconomic conditions and a lack of social support, as well as health selection effects, stigma associated with divorce, and negative life events such as relocation Consequently, the increased healthcare utilization among divorced individuals is primarily linked to their deteriorated health status Notably, even after accounting for these factors, research shows that divorced individuals still have a higher rate of mental health care consumption than those who are married, with single individuals reporting greater unmet care needs.
Higher educational attainment is closely linked to improved mental health in adulthood This connection is often attributed to various factors, such as increased economic resources, reduced chronic stressors, healthier lifestyle choices, and enhanced social support, all contributing to better mental well-being Conversely, the social selection hypothesis posits that education may merely reflect underlying factors, such as early mental health issues, difficult-to-measure family traits, genetic influences, or biological health conditions, which complicate the relationship between education and mental health outcomes.
Development Economics – Group 10 download by : skknchat@gmail.com
Depression is a widespread mental health condition that impacts over 264 million individuals globally Unlike typical mood swings or temporary emotional reactions to life’s challenges, depression can persist and intensify, leading to significant health issues When experienced at moderate to severe levels, it can severely impair a person's ability to function effectively in work, school, and family life, resulting in considerable suffering.
Despite the availability of effective treatments for mental disorders, 76% to 85% of individuals in low- and middle-income countries go untreated Key barriers to accessing care include insufficient resources, a shortage of trained healthcare providers, and the social stigma surrounding mental health issues Additionally, inaccurate assessments contribute to the problem, as many individuals with depression are frequently misdiagnosed, while those without the disorder may be wrongly prescribed antidepressants.
In 2011, the suicide rate among Canadians was alarming, highlighting the profound impact of mental illness, which is often a significant factor in these tragic outcomes A substantial proportion of individuals who die by suicide have a documented history of mental health issues However, suicide is preventable; by gaining a deeper understanding of the statistics, characteristics, and circumstances surrounding these cases, we can improve our intervention strategies and ultimately save lives.
In 2011, Canada recorded a suicide rate of 10.8 per 100,000, translating to 3,728 deaths The data indicates a significant gender disparity, with male suicide rates at 16.3 per 100,000 compared to 5.4 per 100,000 for females Notably, suicide rates tend to peak among individuals in certain age groups.
40 and 60 and a trend is evident for increased suicide in later life for men.
Development Economics – Group 10 download by : skknchat@gmail.com
Suicide rates in Canada have remained stable over the past decade, consistently surpassing those of several G8 nations This persistent issue is particularly alarming given the significantly higher suicide rates among Canadian males compared to females.
2.6 Caring for family member with mental illness
In 2012, a significant percentage of family caregivers aged 15 and older provided support to immediate family members with mental illnesses, highlighting the substantial impact of these conditions on families The level of caregiving reflects the severity of disabilities related to mental health issues, and caregivers often face prolonged stress due to their responsibilities This ongoing stress is associated with negative outcomes, including an increased risk of depression among caregivers.
I MPACT OF ECONOMIC FLUCTUATIONS ON MENTAL HEALTH
Numerous studies have demonstrated the interconnectedness of economic conditions and mental health, highlighting that fluctuations in the economy—whether during a boom, recession, or stagflation—significantly impact the mental well-being of a country's population.
Research indicates that mental health is significantly influenced by socioeconomic and environmental factors (Herrman H, Saxena S, Moodie R., 2005) Additionally, a 2011 World Health Organization study highlights that economic crises can undermine protective factors while exacerbating risk factors affecting mental health.
Social capital and Welfare Protection Poverty, poor education, deprivation, high debt
Healthy environment prenatal and Childhood Poor prenatal nutrition, Abuse, Harsh upbringing, Poor relationship to parents, Intergenerational transmission of mental health problems
Healthy workplace and living Unemployment, Job security, Job stress
Healthy lifestyles Alcohol and/or Drug use
Table 1: Determinants of mental health
Development Economics – Group 10 download by : skknchat@gmail.com
A study conducted in Norway highlighted that employment significantly benefits mental health (Waddell G, Burton AK., 2006) Key factors such as job security, a sense of control over one's work, and social support contribute to the mental well-being of employees Stable employment, secure income, and strong social capital are indicators of positive mental health Social capital encompasses the quality of relationships within communities, including aspects like community networks, civic engagement, and a sense of belonging Economic development is essential for individuals to access these mental health-promoting factors.
A study in Europe highlights that poverty, financial difficulties, and social deprivation are significant socioeconomic risk factors for mental health issues (Fryers T et al, 2005) During economic downturns, these factors are likely to intensify, adversely impacting mental health Countries severely affected by the recent recession have experienced a notable increase in these conditions.
2007, the living and working conditions have substantially worsened.
Achieving good mental health requires a collaborative effort beyond the health sector, as many determinants of mental health lie outside its scope All government sectors must engage in promoting mental well-being, particularly during economic fluctuations, which can significantly affect these determinants Consequently, such economic changes can have a profound impact on the mental health of the population.
The 2007-2008 financial crisis, known as the global financial crisis (GFC), was a significant worldwide economic downturn and was regarded by many economists as the most severe crisis since the Great Depression, prior to the Covid-19 recession in 2020 This crisis led to the bankruptcy of numerous financial companies and caused widespread unemployment, with many individuals experiencing drastic cuts in their income Additionally, the economic decline was accompanied by a rise in negative impacts on people's mental health.
Development Economics – Group 10 download by : skknchat@gmail.com
The chart illustrates the suicide mortality rates in the United States, where the 2008 financial crisis originated, compared to Vietnam Notably, the data reveals a significant upward trend in the United States during the crisis period, highlighting the impact of economic downturns on mental health.
Between 2007 and 2008, Vietnam's economic growth rate rose from 12.4% to 12.7%, aligning with previous studies As a developing country, Vietnam's economy is heavily reliant on developed nations, particularly the United States Consequently, when the U.S experienced a significant financial crisis, Vietnam was adversely impacted, resulting in an economic recession that contributed to rising mental health issues among its citizens, including an increase in suicide rates.
In 2020, the global economy, including Vietnam's, experienced a significant recession triggered by the Covid-19 pandemic Recognizing the strong connection between economic conditions and mental health, we are motivated to investigate the pandemic's effects on mental well-being.
IMPACT OF COVID 19 ON MENTAL HEALTH IN VIETNAM
O VERALL ECONOMIC SITUATION IN V IETNAM
Vietnam has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past 30 years, evolving from an underdeveloped nation with low per capita income to a developing country The significant economic and political reforms initiated in 1986 have played a crucial role in this rapid economic development, propelling Vietnam forward on the global stage.
Development Economics – Group 10 download by : skknchat@gmail.com middle income From 2002 to 2018, GDP per capita increased 2.7 times , reaching over
$2715 USD in 2019 with more than 45 million people escaping from poverty The poverty rate dropped sharply from more than 70% to less than 6%
Since 1986, Vietnam started actively promoting international integration Firstly, Vietnam was officially joined ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) in
In 1995, Vietnam achieved a significant milestone in its regional integration efforts This progress continued as Vietnam broadened its integration strategy across Asia by joining the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) in 1998 On January 11, the country solidified its commitment to economic collaboration and regional partnerships.
In 2007, Vietnam officially became a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO) at its headquarters in Switzerland, marking a significant step in the country's global integration efforts However, the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic brought substantial economic challenges to Vietnam, highlighting the vulnerabilities that come with increased global interconnectedness.
T HE SITUATION OF C OVID -19 PANDEMIC IN V IETNAM
Viet Nam has been lauded as a Covid-19 success story , with only 1,192 cases (at the time of November 2020) among a population of approximately 97 million (Ravelo,
In January 2020, as the first Covid-19 cases emerged, Vietnam implemented stringent precautionary measures that exceeded WHO recommendations These included tightening borders with China, establishing mobile emergency response teams for quarantine and disinfection, and initiating mass testing The government's proactive public health messaging and robust contact tracing efforts have garnered widespread praise for their effectiveness.
Vietnam's economy, which has been experiencing consistent growth of 6% or more annually since 2012, has shown resilience in the face of the economic shocks caused by the pandemic, safeguarding it from potential disaster.
Development Economics – Group 10 download by : skknchat@gmail.com pandemic caused its worst performance in over three decades in the second quarter of
In the second quarter of 2020, urban unemployment surged by 33%, while the average income per worker fell by 5%, estimated at 4.2 million VND (around $180) in 2019 Despite these challenges, the GDP managed to grow by 0.4%, a notable achievement amid widespread economic contractions (Morriset, 2020).
The allocation of $2.6 billion for social assistance has raised concerns among civil society organizations (CSOs) advocating for improved protections for informal workers and ethnic minorities who are currently unable to access these funds (United Nations Viet Nam, 2020).
The Vietnamese government and its citizens have effectively collaborated in combating the epidemic while striving to advance the economy amidst significant challenges However, a new outbreak that began in early May poses additional hurdles.
The year 2021 significantly affected both the lives of individuals and the overall economy of Vietnam, with a sharp rise in Covid-19 cases and fatalities reported in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
Development Economics – Group 10 download by : skknchat@gmail.com
Source: Ministry of Health Portal
During the early phase of the fourth Covid-19 epidemic, case numbers were relatively low; however, they have surged to over 10,000 daily cases, resulting in a rapid increase in hospitalizations This alarming situation has compelled the government to implement lockdowns in major cities, forcing numerous businesses and production activities to halt and exacerbating the economic recession The ongoing economic downturn has had significant repercussions on the mental health of the population.
C OVID -19 AFFECTING INDICATORS OF MENTAL HEALTH IN V IETNAM
Being under-resourced and neighbors with China, where cases of Covid-19 initially emerged, Vietnam was in a precarious position of potentially having an explosion of Covid-
In 2020, the Vietnamese government effectively managed the pandemic, reporting only 19 cases However, the emergence of a new outbreak in May 2021 has significantly challenged the nation, leading to prolonged closures of businesses and production activities due to social distancing measures This has raised concerns about a deeper economic recession in 2021, which is expected to adversely affect mental health Key indicators such as divorce rates, schooling, depression rates, hospitalization, and suicide rates will be crucial in understanding the mental health landscape in Vietnam While the initial pandemic phase in 2020 had minimal negative effects on mental well-being, the escalating stress of the 2021 crisis suggests a deterioration in mental health indicators.
Development Economics – Group 10 download by : skknchat@gmail.com
The divorce rate serves as a significant indicator of mental health, with rising rates often reflecting deteriorating mental well-being Conversely, a decline in divorce rates typically suggests an improvement in mental health conditions.
All relationships naturally involve some conflict, and stressful times can exacerbate this, with financial stress, boredom, parenting disagreements, and household chores often cited as common issues The Covid-19 pandemic intensified these challenges during Vietnam's 2020 lockdown, as couples faced homeschooling and financial uncertainty while being confined at home With support systems less accessible and traditional outlets for stress relief, like socializing with friends, unavailable, many couples found themselves forced to confront underlying issues directly As a result, it is not surprising that numerous marriages have reached a breaking point during this time.
In Vietnam, the divorce rate was anticipated to rise in 2020; however, data from 2013 to 2020 revealed a surprising trend Overall, the divorce rate increased from 18.31% in 2013 to 22.76% in 2020 Notably, in 2020, the first year of the Covid-19 pandemic, the divorce rate actually saw a slight decline from 25.7% in 2019 to 22.76%.
The collective disaster response curve illustrates the phases a community experiences following trauma, highlighting an initial surge of energy and a heightened sense of urgency as they begin to process the situation.
In the aftermath of a disaster, communities often experience a surge of cohesion characterized by a shared determination to overcome challenges together However, as time progresses, this initial energy can fade, leading to feelings of disillusionment and depression This shift can create strain in relationships, as couples may find themselves struggling to cope with the lingering effects of the disaster.
In 2020, Vietnam effectively managed the Covid-19 pandemic, resulting in minimal social distancing measures This proactive approach fostered a strong sense of unity among the population, with the enduring sentiment of “We’ll get through this together!” resonating throughout the country.
The Covid-19 pandemic in 2021 is expected to lead to a slight increase in divorce rates, reflecting a decline in mental health among individuals The lockdowns and social distancing measures created a "perfect storm" for couples, forcing them to spend more time together, which often exposed underlying issues in their relationships As routines that previously masked these problems were disrupted, many couples found themselves facing inevitable break-ups In Vietnam, the prolonged period of social distancing has further contributed to this trend, making an increase in divorce rates likely.
Numerous studies indicate that higher educational attainment is linked to better mental health outcomes for students, while lower educational attainment often correlates with poorer mental health The Covid-19 pandemic, which led to widespread school closures, has significantly impacted students' educational achievement, highlighting the critical relationship between education and mental well-being.
Development Economics – Group 10 download by : skknchat@gmail.com
The global closure of schools due to Covid-19 resulted in over 1.5 billion children being out of school, highlighting the significant impact of the pandemic on education, as emphasized by the Director-General of UNESCO.
(UNESCO), Audrey Azoulay, to warn that " the global scale and speed of the current educational disruption is unparalleled and, if prolonged, could threaten the right to education" (UNESCO, 2020).
In Vietnam, the Covid-19 pandemic led to the closure of all educational institutions in February 2020, impacting over 25 million students To adapt, many schools transitioned to online learning Schools reopened in May 2020 with strict health and sanitation protocols, but with the resurgence of the pandemic in May 2021, educational institutions were forced to close once again.
Surveys reveal that students experience increased feelings of sadness and boredom during extended periods of online learning at home Initially, they may not encounter significant challenges, but as the duration of online classes lengthens, these negative emotions become more pronounced.
Schools play a crucial role in children's well-being by offering stability, essential support services like mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS), and social interactions with peers and teachers The daily routine of attending school fosters resilience, which was disrupted during the pandemic, leading to feelings of lethargy and frustration among students (Lee, 2020) Consequently, the extended period of online learning has negatively affected students' mental health.
Online learning presents several challenges for students, particularly in areas such as self-study skills, concentration, and technical issues As shown in the accompanying chart, a significant number of students struggle with self-study abilities, often due to insufficient study time or a lack of engagement in their coursework.
Online learning presents challenges that can hinder student focus, with distractions accounting for 51.4% of the issue Factors such as minor health concerns and technical difficulties further complicate the learning experience, ultimately impacting students' educational outcomes and achievement levels.
Development Economics – Group 10 download by : skknchat@gmail.com
With increasing divorce rate and low education attainment, depression rate in
EFFORFS TO REDUCE SYMPTOMS OF MENTAL DISORDER
M ENTAL HEALTH P OLICY & S TRATEGY
Research by Patel & Jané-Llopis (2005), Musisi, Molica & Weiss (2005), and Anderson et al (2005) highlights that legislative changes, effective policy formulation, and strategic resource allocation can significantly enhance the mental health of populations in various countries and regions.
Research indicates that poor health significantly impacted mental well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the correlation between physical and mental health.
Ho RCInt J Environ Res Public Health 2020 Mar 6; 17(5):.) Vietnamese government has implemented some interventions for people who facing with mental health problems
An interim relief package of 63 trillion VND has been introduced to support vulnerable groups during the pandemic, including furloughed workers, those on unpaid leave, freelancers, and individuals living in poverty or near-poverty These targeted short-term interventions aim to alleviate the socioeconomic challenges faced by these populations.
Research from the World Health Organization's Assessment Instrument for Mental Health Systems (WHO-AIMS) highlights that, despite the existence of mental health legislation aimed at safeguarding human rights in Vietnam, the actual enforcement of these laws remains inadequate.
M ENTAL HEALTH ACTIVITIES
Generally, the mental healthcare industry in Vietnam is still developing.
The government has established the National Mental Health Programe (NMHP) (VietnamBriefing, Kyssha Mah)
In 2010, the Prime Minister of Vietnam launched the National Project on Social Work Profession Development, set to run from 2010 to 2020, with the Ministry of Labor, Invalids and Social Affairs (MOLISA) overseeing its implementation The initiative aims to train 60,000 social work professionals, encompassing both social workers and managers.
In 2013, the Ministry of Labor, Invalids and Social Affairs (MOLISA) issued Circular No 07/2013/TT-BLDTBXH, which established professional standards for social work collaborators at the commune, ward, and town levels These collaborators are tasked with assisting individuals with mental illnesses and disorders by gathering information and requests for help, monitoring their health, and assessing their family and social situations Their role includes providing various forms of support such as counseling, therapy, and education, as well as participating in the implementation of relevant policies and programs Additionally, they are involved in raising awareness about mental health within families and communities.
In response to the high rates of post-traumatic stress, depression, and anxiety linked to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Vietnamese government implemented a robust campaign to combat misinformation This effort, combined with clear and consistent messaging about the virus, helped mitigate the negative effects of quarantine As a result, it fostered optimistic attitudes and increased trust in the government, ultimately reducing catastrophic health appraisals.
The Department of Psychiatry at Hanoi Medical University and the National Institute of Mental Health offer training programs for psychiatrists, yet interest among general medical students for a one-year psychiatry specialization remains low To enhance Vietnam's mental health care infrastructure, collaboration with foreign educational institutions and professional training programs is essential for building clinical capacity and skills Strengthening partnerships with local institutions to improve existing educational frameworks or creating independent training services can significantly address the current challenges in the field.
I NDIVIDUAL EFFORTS
Mental health is defined as a state of well-being where individuals recognize their abilities, manage life's stresses, work productively, and contribute to their communities To alleviate mental health challenges, self-help strategies are essential According to Timothy J Legg and Adam Felman, individuals facing mental health issues often need to adopt lifestyle changes for improved wellness These changes may involve reducing alcohol consumption, increasing sleep, and maintaining a balanced diet Additionally, taking time off work or addressing harmful personal relationships can be crucial for enhancing mental health.
Individuals suffering from anxiety or depressive disorders can find relief through relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, and mindfulness Additionally, establishing a supportive network, whether through self-help groups or the companionship of friends and family, plays a crucial role in the recovery process from mental illness.
Development Economics – Group 10 download by : skknchat@gmail.com
DISCUSSIONS AND CONCLUSIONS
D ISCUSSIONS
This report recognizes its limitations, lacking systematic data on the mental health changes experienced by the Vietnamese population during the global pandemic Despite these shortcomings, it aims to inspire further research into the effects of COVID-19 on the mental well-being of Vietnamese individuals and to explore effective solutions for addressing these challenges.
The psychological effects of COVID-19 are increasingly evident, with rising cases of post-traumatic stress, depression, and anxiety linked to quarantine and social distancing While Vietnam has effectively managed its COVID-19 response, it has not escaped the mental health repercussions of the pandemic This report offers an in-depth analysis of the impact of COVID-19 on the mental well-being of the Vietnamese population.
Development Economics – Group 10 download by : skknchat@gmail.com