Has COVID-19 Affected Your Mental Health?
COVID-19 has undoubtedly changed the lives of millions of people around the world. While it affects us all differently, we are all affected in one way or another. The worry and anxiety surrounding the virus is perpetuated by uncertainty, misinformation and fear for your own health as well as the health of those you love. Your work or personal life may be dramatically affected and the pandemic could have landed you with financial pressures. Ironically, social distancing, implemented to reduce the spread of the virus, has sustained these feelings of anxiety and lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation.
While you navigate this pandemic, there are several self-care strategies that you should keep in mind as recommended by public health professionals. Adopting these self-care habits can lead to an increase in both your mental and physical health.
Simple physical habits include:
1. Getting adequate sleep. Try to stick to a regular sleep schedule, even if your daily schedule has been altered.
2. Get some exercise. Find new, innovative ways to move your body. Join an online class or move outside.
3. Don’t forget about your diet. Make sure you continue to eat a healthy balance of foods and limit excessive alcohol, sugar or caffeine.
Simple mental habits include:
4. Limiting your exposure to negative news. While it is important to stay informed on the latest health recommendations and government orders, detach yourself from the news and from social media channels as much as you can. Limit screen time and opt to chat with a friend over the phone instead.
5. Connect with others. There are ways to connect with others while maintaining social distancing. Use Zoom, FaceTime or even a simple phone call to connect with those you care about.
6. Remind yourself that this is not a normal scenario and that you are doing the best you can. It’s easy to get swept up in the fear and uncertainty of the pandemic. Remind yourself that you are navigating new territory and that there is no “normal” way to feel or act. Do what is best for you while following the advice of government and healthcare professionals.
