The current global health crisis has caused more than an economic downturn. As governments have implemented social distancing and quarantine to flatten the curve, many people have experienced boredom, anxiety, and stress. You miss the things that you usually do and it’s not easy. Whether it’s a self-imposed quarantine or a mandated one, everybody needs to cooperate with the government in preventing the spread of the disease. Though this period of uncertainty can affect your mental well-being, you have the choice to be strong to be able to rise above it. Here are 7 tips to maintain your mental health during these trying times.
1. Stay informed, but not overwhelmed
It’s necessary to keep yourself abreast of the latest updates on the coronavirus pandemic. However, obsessing over the news can cause anxiety and make you divert your attention from the positive sides. Get helpful information from trusted sources and unplug yourself so you can do other things beneficial to you.
2. Stick to a routine
Whether or not you are an employee, you still have responsibilities every day. Being indecisive can lead to stress in the long run. So, create a schedule and stick to it. Setting a time frame allows you to be productive when working at home. This gives a balance for you to enjoy personal matters after finishing your tasks.
3. Stay connected
Use technology to communicate with your loved ones aside from the ones at home. Connect with your friends and other people you value which you couldn’t do during the time you were always busy at work. This is your opportunity to get closer to those who matter to you.
4. Sleep well
Having enough sleep is highly important regardless of the situation. You have to refresh yourself to recover from the day-to-day demands of life. You can’t totally eliminate stress, you can only manage it. Sleeping is one of the effective ways to regain your energy. This boosts your mental health as well.
5. Exercise
Since you can’t go to the gym, do exercises at home to strengthen your immune system and keep a sound mind. Physical activities stimulate the release of dopamine in your brain. It is also known as the “happy hormone”. Therefore, exercising is good for your mental well-being.
6. Do activities you enjoy
You have more time now to indulge in your passion. Even if you have outdoor hobbies, you can still find something you can enjoy at home. Do you love cooking? Writing? Painting? Building things? Being happy with what you do can help you maintain your mental health. Also, it’s one way to kickstart your personal growth during the lockdown.
7. Be grateful
There are other things you can be thankful for. Practice recognizing those pieces every day. This habit results in optimism. As you go to bed at night and close your eyes, remember the good things in your life. Feel your heartbeat. You’re still breathing. You’re still moving. You’re just fine. Don’t lose hope.
Though it’s easier said than done, being optimistic amid pandemic is achievable. Your mental well-being depends on how you choose to perceive things. You’re not alone in this battle. Keep your sanity so you can protect the people around you. It starts with having the right perspective.
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Photo by Madison Inouye from Pexels
