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Mental health got you down during COVID? Here’s what you can do

Globally, lives have taken a turn for the worse since 2020, with the pandemic restricting movement and social interactions, while propagating an environment of fear. While the virus has caused several fundamental changes in the way we work, travel, shop and entertain ourselves, it has also increased the focus on health and hygiene standards.

Though mental health was always an important area of concern, when the pandemic struck, it severely aggravated the situation. So, taking care of one’s body and mind has assumed greater significance than ever before.

Despite lockdown and isolation, you can keep psychological distress at bay with the following strategies

• Educate yourself on mental health issues

Reading material on mental health issues has become easily available online. Going through such material will help you understand what your loved ones or you might be experiencing. It will also give you a basic idea of ways to deal with such issues. Identifying common signs of mental health illnesses is the first step towards tackling them. You will then know whether professional help is required or not. Anxiety is one of the most common feelings that one may have, and it is completely normal to have them. Recognise your anxiety and use it in a positive manner, to wash your hands periodically, wear masks, and avoid touching your face.

• Get professional help

Several NGOs and start-ups are offering free counseling sessions for those who need them. Some have round-the-clock helpline and wellness programs that might fit your specific needs. The mental health wellness ecosystem has also gone online, allowing you to access such services from the comfort of your home, when it gets too much.

• Reconnect with friends and family

Lockdowns have forced you to stay indoors. But use this time to reconnect with those who live with you and find ways to entertain each other. Enjoy your spring-cleaning sessions at home. Play games, watch movies and cook together to keep negative thoughts at bay. If you are living alone, connect with your friends on video. Reconnect with people you have lost touch with and reminisce about the good, old days.

• Hobbies and distractions

Cultivate a hobby. There won’t be a better time to do so than now. If you have a bit of free time left after you are done with office tasks and household chores, learn how to paint, grow a garden, draw, cook, and more. Spend time reading and upskilling yourself with various courses available online. Meditation is a great way to de-clutter and de-stress too.

• Reduce screen time

Be wary of the time you spend glued to the screen. Take breaks and walk around the house. Fix a work routine and stick to it, after which you can dedicate some time to your hobbies and other interests. Or spend some quality time with your family.

• Exercise

Stress is known to induce overeating in some people, and that can lead to obesity-related problems. Monitor your calorie intake and exercise daily to keep the blood flowing and keep your energy levels high. Exercise is known to enhance mood, while also keeping you fit and active.

• Just be patient

It is a tough time for everyone. So, it is completely fine if you are not doing hundred different things that others are. Avoid being too hard on yourself and take a break. Just relax, breathe and exist. Things will get better.

Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and discussions about health and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this blog, website or in any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered, or used as a substitute for, medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Kindly contact your Doctor before starting a new medicine or health regime.

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Published on November 26, 2021