Abstract
Objective: To present, through a narrative review, the general aspects of covid-19 and the importance of mental health care in the face of this scenario. Bibliographic review: We are currently facing the COVID-19 pandemic, a disease caused by the new SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus. His first report took place in Wuhan, China. It belongs to the Coronaviridae family, infects animals and humans, causes respiratory disorders and can reach degrees of severity ranging from mild to severe. Therapeutic and prophylactic measures are being investigated and tested, with social isolation being the safest behavioral measure to prevent the spread of the pathogen. Therefore, it is necessary to educate the population and make them aware of the importance of this practice. However, interruption of daily activities, confinement at home, uncertainty, social distance, fear of infection are triggers of anxiety. Final considerations: Although restrictive attitudes represent essential public health measures to contain the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is a serious threat to the mental health and well-being of the general population. Thus, guiding, reassuring and providing support to the vulnerable population is essential to mitigate the damage.