The article discusses the mental health burden and strategies for addressing "pandemic fear" and the COVID-19 pandemic. It highlights how pandemics often lead to an underestimation of psychological and psychiatric implications, which can have significant long-term impacts on mental health. The authors emphasize the need for comprehensive mental health strategies, including multidisciplinary teams, clear communication, and safe psychological counseling services. They also stress the importance of public mental health policies and the role of mental health professionals in emergency planning and management. The article references studies showing that fear and anxiety can exacerbate psychiatric disorders and that the mental health implications of pandemics can be more prevalent and long-lasting than the disease itself. It concludes by advocating for increased investment in mental health research and strategic actions during infectious outbreaks.The article discusses the mental health burden and strategies for addressing "pandemic fear" and the COVID-19 pandemic. It highlights how pandemics often lead to an underestimation of psychological and psychiatric implications, which can have significant long-term impacts on mental health. The authors emphasize the need for comprehensive mental health strategies, including multidisciplinary teams, clear communication, and safe psychological counseling services. They also stress the importance of public mental health policies and the role of mental health professionals in emergency planning and management. The article references studies showing that fear and anxiety can exacerbate psychiatric disorders and that the mental health implications of pandemics can be more prevalent and long-lasting than the disease itself. It concludes by advocating for increased investment in mental health research and strategic actions during infectious outbreaks.