Lately, the stigma of COVID-19 has caused many people to refuse testing and also treatment. Stigma against COVID-19 patients has to be quickly eliminated and that can be done by getting the right information about this COVID-19.
Do not ever sideline or ignore them but instead try to support them. Together we are able to fight COVID-19. Ministry Of Health has posted on their Facebook page about COVID-19 & Stigma with the hope to educate society about stigma and what causes it, the effects of stigma, and also how to manage stigma.
According to the post, societies should definitely avoid having stigma on COVID-19 and try to do the following things if you ever feel that you have been exposed to COVID-19:
- Seek professional help. People can go to the Mental Health & Psychosocial Support Services (MHPSS). They are available at government health clinics and hospitals.
- Helpline services. People also can contact helpline services such as Talian Kasih, Befrienders, and many others to seek help.
“Avoid the stigma against COVID-19 patients by getting the right information,” MOH wrote in the post.
Other than that, the Facebook posting also stated what causes stigma, what are the effects of stigma, and also how to manage stigma.
“Do not exclude them but give them support. Together we fight COVID-19,” added MOH.
Sources: Facebook Ministry Of Health.