The pandemic has impacted the mental health of many.
In fact, as we head out of the other end, you may be worried about how you are going to cope with the continuous changes. Going back to ‘normal’ or close to ‘normal living’ post pandemic will have its own issues.
Although it may be a mentally challenging time for many, there are simple and effective ways that you can help yourself. As well, you can help those that you care about to feel better and more in control.
Let’s have a look below at some of the ways you can look after your mental health as we turn towards a more positive future:
Taking Care Of Yourself
It is important to remember to look after yourself and to be kind to yourself. Whether it’s taking some time to yourself for exercise, sitting down to read a written piece from someone such as Dee Agarwal, or simply taking some time to pamper yourself. These are all good ways to be kinder to yourself through the Covid-19 pandemic and beyond. Many people struggle to treat themselves kindly. In fact, many of us are nicer to others than we are to ourselves. Make sure you show yourself some compassion. Remember that this time hasn’t been easy. Take the pressure off and focus on the good.
Get Yourself Outside
It’s a great time to make the most of the outdoors now that the weather is warming and the days are longer. It’s been proven that visiting nature and being in daylight is a massive mood booster. Even if it’s still a little nippy, get yourself outdoors and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Get Yourself Moving
Many people took a mental health hit when gyms and social facilities closed. Something that a lot of us have learned from this time is that you can still get yourself moving. Going for a walk, a ride or doing a home workouts are all great for your body and mind. Some people have even made a career out of it. For example virtual PT, yoga or workout sessions. The most important thing about getting moving is the enjoyment. Find an activity that you enjoy. You aren’t going to like every activity out there and you should not waste time with what you do not enjoy. If you are someone who isn’t keen on exercise, you may find that it’s the activity you are doing and not the exercise itself.
Sleep Is Important
You probably hear it all the time. But, do you know that lack of sleep or too much sleep can have a huge impact on your mental health? Although it may be easier said than done, you need to get a good night’s sleep. If you are experiencing a lack of sleep due to stress or worry, it’s completely understandable. However, it is also important for you to tackle it. Have a look for some ways to relax before bed, turn off technology half an hour before you sleep, and create a relaxing environment.
Keep An Eye Out For Burnout
There are many people working harder than ever. If you are working at home, you don’t have the support of your colleagues. Additionally, it can be more difficult to switch off from your working day. And if you still have to go to work, or are going back to work, it can fill you with anxieties. It can be difficult to spot burnout and it can sneak up on you. However, if you start to feel less like yourself or you feel like you are constantly working it could be a warning sign.
Find Support And Support Others
Building a support group is a good idea. Do not wait until you feel as if you need it. Instead do it because you never know when you, or someone else, will need a few kind words or a listening ear. Think about the people that you would like in your support group. Make an effort to stay in regular contact. It doesn’t need to be every day, just speak once a week or go out for an outdoor coffee or bite to eat.
These are just a few of the things that we have learned about our mental health during the pandemic.
Have you learned any ways you can look after your mental health?
Please share them in the comments below.
Naturally Yours,
Elise Ho, Ph.D., D.N.Psy
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