COVID-19 brought with it many challenges and changes in our work, personal lives, the precautions we had to take and consequently, our interactions and even reactions to those affected or at risk of contracting this novel disease.   

Fear of the virus created social stigma due to less information about it, the uncertainty of how it may evolve in future and its impact on our future.  

What happens when we face uncertainty and fear? We may either seek answers from an external source or make our own meaning based on past experiences. This process is often a way for us to gain control of that fear. However, fear of the virus has created a stigma against people who have been affected by the virus or are at the risk of contracting it and even those who have recovered.   

For example, healthcare workers are often the target of this stigma, being treated as “at-risk”, although they follow strict precautions. Individuals who have recovered from the virus also face situations where family, friends or colleagues' distance themselves due to fear of becoming affected. Such experiences can become isolating and overwhelming and can lead to:  

• Wanting to hide signs of illness to avoid discrimination  

• Not seeking help on time  

• Feeling discouraged from adopting healthy behaviours and precautions  

These are a few suggestions that can help those dealing with such stigma:   

• Understand that stigma comes from misinformation: Insufficient knowledge about the virus leads to assumptions about what is or isn’t safe. Taking time to learn more from credible sources (WHO, CDC, etc.) can help you overcome your fears and doubts. You can then educate others and clarify myths. 
• Do not take things personally: For example, if a friend seems to be avoiding meeting you because you had COVID-19 in the past, it can be upsetting and frustrating. Here you can take a step back and reflect on whether what they are saying is based on facts or fears. It can give you the space to respond with compassion or to step away from the conversation.  
• Tell your story/document your experience of being stigmatized: Keep in mind that physical distancing is what is needed to contain the virus, not “social” distancing. Staying connected socially can help you feel grounded while navigating uncertainties. Take time to share your experiences, feelings, and thoughts with supportive loved ones and friends who make you feel safe. Doing so can help you vent out any pent-up anger, frustration or negative feelings.  
• Managing frustration caused by others’ behaviours or words: If you are unable to clarify the other person’s information, or they are not willing to listen, it can be frustrating. In this case, try to remove yourself from the situation for a few minutes, to escape from a conversation where you might end up feeling overwhelmed or frustrated.  
• Move from the language of fear and paranoia to one of empathy: Try to avoid using stigmatizing terms like ‘infected’, ‘carrier’ or ‘victims’. Instead, switch to ‘affected’ or ‘acquired’. People often learn by modelling others’ behaviours and words, and this could be a start towards using words that display empathy and compassion. Being mindful of the words being used and being empathetic towards others leads to a renewed appreciation of our interconnectedness as humans. At the same time, we battle the changes brought on by the virus.  

With the new vaccines, there is hope that things will change for the better. However, studies show that it will take a few years to eradicate the virus. Hence, it is important to continue following precautions and also treat others with empathy and compassion. Remembering to respond to facts rather than fears can make the difference between feeling stigmatized and feeling empowered. It is only through facts, proper action and mutual support that we can, as a community, start to replace fears, myths and rumours.