Psychosocial Impacts of Covid 19 Pandemic in Zimbabwe

Abstract

The Covid-19 pandemic has continued to cause socio-economic damages which will take a long time to recover from while there is no vaccine in sight. The impacts are affecting the social well-being of global citizens which triggers the need to investigate the psychosocial effects. In order to achieve and to provide the missing African context, the study was done in Zimbabwe. Due to lockdown restrictions, samples were obtained using online survey and social media platforms. Analysis was done to determine the effects, so far, of the virus on the general economy, psychological and social aspects as well as religious values of the citizens qualitatively and quantitatively. The findings indicated that economic loses were recorded at household, corporate and national levels. Indicators included increases in prices and exchange rate which eroded the buying power of local currency and increased the cost of basic commodities. Economic pressures, Covid-19 trends and restrictions imposed caused psychological damages which included fear, feeling of uncertainty and loss of hope. The study recommended increased awareness and psychological support to help the citizens to overcome mental displeasures. The study has potential to assist policy makers, health practitioners and development partners in developing strategies to eliminate Covid-19 related psychosocial pressures in Zimbabwe and globally.