Apart from the toll of physical symptoms caused by COVID-19, recovery can be a mentally stressful time for patients who suddenly find themselves away from their families. Earlier this month, the NESCO COVID centre in Goregaon started online counselling sessions and therapists say, fears of re-infection and feeling disconnected from their children, are among the major reasons for anxiety among patients.

While the civic-run jumbo centres have a couple of psychologists as part of their staff, online sessions offer a more one-on-one approach. At NESCO, officials said that two tables have been set up and a smartphone is given to the patient for the session that can last up to 45 minutes. Dr Neelam Andrade, dean, NESCO centre, said, “We have tied up with an organisation called Prafulta who offer voluntary service. They give virtual counselling services to patients. So far, 158 patients have opted for the service and NESCO is the only jumbo centre to offer online counselling services.”