Easing lockdown stress of the differently-abled

The Covid-19 outbreak has been particularly harsh on differently abled individuals. Apart from the physical distress, their mental health, too, has been severely affected. The effects of school closure, social distancing and medical equipment shortage are further amplified for families of children with disabilities. Shyama Chona, founderpresident of Tamana Association, says, “Specially abled kids looked forward to meeting friends and had a fixed routine which they now miss.”

Caregivers, families, and friends can help by allowing such people practical and emotional leeway to cope. “Encourage them to communicate with friends, teachers and colleagues via audio-visual mediums,” suggests Chona. As a society, we can help by being aware and sensitive to the risks faced by specially abled people in an outbreak. Diksha Chhabra, wellness expert, says, “If you know someone in your locality, check on them about their health, medical supplies and mental state. Gulfam Ahmad, wheelchair model, asks his fellow differently abled people to pick up a hobby. “Simple activities such as painting or stitching help alleviate stress and keep the mind agile.”