Coronavirus: Warning over antidepressants and sleeping pills during Covid-19 crisis

Police urge residents not to turn to medication unless prescribed by a doctor

Police urged residents not to consider taking antidepressants or sleeping pills, acquired either illegally or from someone who has a prescription, without the consent of a doctor. Getty Images

Dubai Police chiefs urged the public not to turn to antidepressants or sleeping pills to cope with the stress of self-isolating at home.

Officers said there was a risk that some would be tempted to acquire medication illegally or from friends who have prescriptions.

"It can lead to addiction if consumed over long periods of time or even an overdose,” said Col Khalid bin Moyazeh, deputy head of the anti-drug unit.

He said it was acknowledged that sudden changes to lifestyle could lead some to consider unauthorised medication.

“Regardless of what excuses one has - sleepless nights, feeling worried or wanting to escape the noise of their children - people should not act recklessly when it comes to using pills," he said.

Officials also urged families to tackle another potential addiction - screen use - at a time when they may be at home for long periods.

“People are now glued to their smart phones, wasting time, looking for the latest news, chatting with others, watching movies or playing games,” said Col Abdullah Matar Al Khayat, head of the Hemaya drug awareness programme at Dubai Police.

He urged parents to take engage with their children in conversation, read with them and ensure the family exercises together.

Increasing attention has been paid to the potential mental health impact of Covid-19.

Earlier this is month, the government said it was clear that the crisis had led people to worry.

"Fear and anxiety can weaken immunity. We need to work out how to deal with stress," said Ammar Al Muaini, spokesperson for the National Programme for Happiness and Quality of Life.

Dr Farida Al Hosani, spokeswoman for the government's health sector, emphasised the importance of exercise, eating healthily and avoid unnecessary worries about their health.