The COVID-19 global pandemic has brought about a whole new set of challenges for people of all kinds. Whether you’re someone who is dealing with chronic depression, <a href=”https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/managing-stress-anxiety.html”>anxiety</a>, or any other mental health problem, chances are that this new situation has made things a little more difficult. Even for those without any mental health problems may notice a decline in their overall mental health as a result of the current pandemic. In any case, the good news is that there are several things you can do to take care of your mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic. Here’s our list of a few things you can take action on today.
Don’t let your diet and exercise routine slip
If you have a regular exercise routine, whether it’s running a few miles, lifting some weights, or holding yoga poses, then you know just how much of a difference it can make on your mental and physical health. However, with so many people stuck inside on shelter at home orders, it’s all too easy to allow regular exercise routines to take a back seat. But this is not the time to quit your exercising. When you maintain a healthy exercise schedule, you can help to keep a level of normalcy and resilience that is necessary to keep alive during such a trying time.
The same goes for your diet. Not only do the foods you eat contribute to your body’s immune system and longevity, but they also play a vital role in your mental health. If you’re constantly eating unhealthy foods, then it’s likely that your mental health will also see a steep decline. If you need a fun challenge while passing time in quarantine, why not try making a new healthy recipe at least a few times each week. The novelty of trying new foods will keep your diet interesting. Plus, you may even emerge from all this with some awesome new recipes up your sleeves.
Maintain the routines, schedules, and habits in your life
Diet and exercise are important as routines, but surely you have other routines in your life that may have been disrupted as a result of the global pandemic. Keeping up your regular schedule in light of the current situation is an excellent way to maintain your sense of strength and stability, both of which are feelings that contribute to an overall state of improved mental health. Are you used to watching your favorite TV show every Thursday night? Stick to it. Are Mondays the day you usually get work done and call friends? Don’t forfeit the routine. These habits and schedules can help you to stay on top of your mental health.
Stay in touch with friends and family
Isolation is the last thing we need during this global pandemic. Sure, you may be practicing social distancing and staying physically separated from the people in your life, but that doesn’t mean you have to cease contact with them. As a matter of fact, increasing your amount of social interactions may be one of the best ways to take care of your mental health, whether in the midst of a pandemic or not. Take advantage of the many modern tools of communication we have available to us to keep in touch with the people in your life. Whether it’s a phone call, a video chat, or an email, there are endless opportunities for maintaining a connection throughout these challenging times.
Checking in on the older members of your family is certainly important during the global pandemic as well. Many public places are closed for gatherings right now, which tends to isolate people even further. While slip and falls are the number one cause of accidents in restaurants, hotels, and public buildings, there are definitely still concerns to be had in regards to the elderly population. This makes it that much more important to make sure you’re staying connected to the older people in your life, whether they’re family members or members of your local community.
Keep a positive perspective
Mindset is everything when it comes to mental health. Sure, it may seem impossible to keep a positive outlook during a global pandemic, but it’s more important now than it’s ever been before. Do whatever it takes to look on the bright side of things. Some days this may mean taking a nice long walk outside in the sunshine. Some days this may mean getting your thoughts and feelings out by journaling and mentioning some things you are grateful for. Whatever works for you is fine. There is no wrong method of maintaining a positive mindset. Doing so will work wonders for your mental health and well being.
Be mindful of your hygiene
If you’re inside a lot as a lot of us are right now, it’s tempting to skip out on some basic hygienic measures. However, doing this will only lead to further feelings of imbalance and loss of control. Make sure you do all those little things that make you feel happy, healthy, and confident.
Don’t skip out on brushing and flossing, either. It’s important for people of all ages to get regular dental checkups every six months. You don’t want to come out of quarantine having some dental issues to deal with because you skipped out on your hygiene. Even doing something as simple as putting on a nice outfit can have a tremendously positive effect on your mental well-being.
Focus on practicing new skills and taking up hobbies
Finally, it’s not a bad idea to shift your focus to your interests. Sure, it may be tough to focus on other things, but doing so can provide you with some much needed relief. You could even learn more about a skill or hobby that you’ve wanted to take up, but haven’t had the time to learn about. Take something like boating, for example. Even if you’re not able to get involved in boating until after the global pandemic, you can get a head start by educating yourself now while you have extra time. After all, did you know that there over 15 million boats currently in use in the United States?
While the global pandemic is presenting a host of problems for mental health, it’s important to do what you can to stay on top of things. By sticking to some of these tips, you’ll be that much closer to looking after your mental health for the duration of the global pandemic. Good luck out there and stay healthy!
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