Deal with the stress caused by the pandemic with these tips
No one is unaffected by the pandemic. The fear, the stress, the news, the numbers…and even if all of that doesn’t affect you, just the change in our daily lives, along with the lockdowns are enough to affect mental health.
First of all, it is important to remember that it is ok to feel weird about the whole situation and that each of us reacts differently under pressure. For some it is easier to manage feelings of discomfort. Others find it more difficult. And that’s okay.
The following tips may help your mental health at this time if you are worried about pandemic COVID-19.
Contact your people
Maintaining close relationships (from a distance) with people you trust is of paramount importance for your mental health. We all have a need to connect with other people, so keeping in touch with your loved ones and especially with people who are good for your mental world can be very helpful. There are a number of ways to connect. It can be a face-to-face meeting, or a phone call or a video call. Fortunately, social media is an opportunity for communication, but remember to avoid technology before bedtime.
Talk about your concerns
The situation we are -still- living in is unprecedented for all of us and feeling strange (to say the least) is perfectly normal. Sharing your worries, fear and anxiety with people you trust can be redemptive, both for you and for them. If you feel like you don’t have anyone to talk to, or if you’ve tried it and it didn’t work, then you can turn to a professional.
Support others
Helping someone helps yourself. Understanding and empathising with your neighbour’s concerns is already a wonderful way to show understanding and support. Think of simple things you can do to help those around you. Is there someone, relative or friend, who needs support or companionship? If they don’t live near you, even a phone call is enough.
Take care of your body
Our mental health has a very big impact on our physical health. If we don’t feel good we are likely to indulge in unhealthy habits, which in the long run will make us feel even worse.
Try to eat balanced meals, drink water and exercise regularly. Going for a walk and clearing your mind benefits the body and soul at the same time.
Stick to the facts
Much is written and said about the progress of the pandemic, but so much information can be emotionally difficult. Pick a source of information that you trust and that has scientific backing and get your information from there. It might help to reduce the amount of time you spend listening, reading, watching and generally dealing with the pandemic.
Do things you enjoy
Feelings of anxiety, stress and worry can prevent us from doing things that we really enjoy, fill us up and bring us joy. Return to your favorite hobby, your relaxation, your exercise. Still, try starting something new that keeps you creatively engaged.
Focus on the present
Remembering to bring your thoughts back to the present and not focusing on the future, which you cannot control, will be a lifesaver for your mental health. Relaxation techniques such as meditation or breathing, perhaps a video or relaxing sounds will go a long way in relieving stress.
Take care of your sleep
Good quality sleep makes a huge difference to physical and mental health. It is important to get sufficient and quality sleep. Avoid technology before sleep and reduce your caffeine intake. If you work from home, avoid working in the bedroom and instead create a completely relaxing environment there so that your brain associates that room only with sleep. We hope that all this will be useful to you and help you. If you continue to struggle remember that it’s always okay to get help and you don’t have to go through anything alone!