The deadly coronavirus is certainly causing devastating physical effects. However, it is significantly taking a toll on mental health as well. Government and health authorities have given stay-at-home orders and put in restrictions, which are resulting in unemployment, fear about infection, and whatnot. This is ultimately leading to depression and anxiety during this challenging time.
If you show symptoms of clinical depression or other mental health issues, you should seek medical advice or other mental health professionals immediately.
Moreover, there are many ways you can do to mind your mental health during these trying time:
Taking care of yourself through proper routine
Proper routine helps manage stress and anxiety and helps you adapt more quickly to the current reality. Make a proper schedule and create a clear difference between work and non-work time. Engage yourself in activities that are not working and make you happy, and bring joy. Take shorts breaks between your work schedule and get enough and sound sleep.
Limit your social media engagement and news watching
It is crucial to stay informed, but the constant streaming updates and news could be exhausting and demoralizing. This is the critical time when you need positivity and encouragement. Moreover, the news flashing during these times can be highly upsetting, and watching the 24-hour news cycle can create a lot of distress. Also, always make sure to obtain your information from trustworthy and reliable sources. Do not load your mind with a lot of information; give it a break and watch those things that uplift your mood or calm your soul.
You should protect your physical health to help safeguard your mental health as they are closely intertwined. Exercise regularly, avoid junk food, eat healthy and balanced meals, get enough and sound sleep, avoid smoking and alcohol consumption, and take medication and necessary supplements as prescribed. It is essential for you to stay fit and healthy.
Stay connected with your loved ones
During this distressing time, you should stay connected with your nearest and dearest ones, including your parents, family, and friends. Share your feelings and inform them about your overall wellness. We are in social isolation, but we do not need to feel alone. In addition, if you find someone who might be particularly isolated, reach out to them. Further, many groups and NGOs are working virtually to help combat loneliness and isolation. Reach out to them and seek help; there is no harm to speak what you feel.
If you are looking to get relieved from stress and anxiety, meditation is the key. It relaxes both your body and mind and soothes your inner soul. It can relieve stress and reduces negative emotions or attitudes. It also gives you tools to manage stress and help you to be more patient. Additionally, meditation nourishes creativity and allows you to focus on the present clearly.
Lastly, seek help, do not overthink, and stay connected with people around.
Fortunately, you can stay in touch with your health care providers and seek their advice and guidance with technology such as telemedicine.