Tips To Stay Mentally Healthy During Challenging Times

It goes without saying that these are new and unprecedented times for all of us as we navigate life, due to the coronavirus pandemic. We are immersed in guidelines regarding how to keep ourselves and our loved ones healthy and having to adjust to new guidelines it seems on a daily basis. It is important to be mindful of how social distancing poses a new threat to our mental and emotional well being and learn ways to overcome them.

From the young to the elderly and everyone in between, everyone has the potential to be affected by the new way of life that we are now in. Simply put, social contact is a human need that we suffer both mentally and physically without.

1. Fear And Anxiety . Strong feelings of unease are triggered as we hear that this virus is reported as remarkably contagious, tenacious, and we see that supplies appear low in stores. Learning how to better manage these uncomfortable feelings that we are all feeling is key.
2. Boredom. Our daily routines are completely far away from the norm at this point. Many of us are staying home instead of going into work, the kids are learning online instead of being at school and all of the security of a normal routine is missing. Finding things that you enjoy and perhaps never had time for before is a way to combat being bored.
3. Anger, Frustration, or Irritability. We have been forced to relinquish control of so many things all at once. Anger may be directed at specific people, such as the customer that purchased so much toilet paper that now you can’t find any, or to the media that seems to deliver only bad news. All of these things can trigger feelings of anger, frustration, or irritability and make it difficult to stay positive minded.

• Stay Connected . This is likely the most obvious way to combat isolation and fortunately, technology can help us maintain the needed link to friends and family. Social distancing doesn't mean complete isolation. Texting, email, video chatting, and social media are great options to keep in touch with loved ones near and far.
• Stay Active. When trying to avoid the effects of social isolation, it’s critical that you add some form of physical activity to your day. Jogging, walking, or biking releases mood-boosting hits of dopamine that can be a huge boost to your mental health. Take your exercise outside to change your exercise routine when possible since gyms are not open at this time.
• Go Outside. The coronavirus may have an easier time spreading indoors, so step outside and take a breath of fresh air. Spring is is an amazing time to inspire feelings of hope as well as soak up vitamin D. Experiencing the outdoors instead of the same walls inside will help calm the stress of social distancing.
• Manage Exposure To The Media . It is incredibly easy to get hooked on watching the nonstop press conferences or to continuously check for online updates but a large amount of negative exposure can be paralyzing, to say the least. While it is important to stay informed, your mental health will be bettered by limiting the exposure to the media. Instead, fill your mind with positive data and stay in contact with the positive-minded people in your life.

The coronavirus has altered nearly every aspect of life as we remember it being. It is true social distancing can help keep you from contracting the virus, but it also may also be challenging and draining to your emotions and mental health. Take the time each day to find ways to keep you positive and at peace.

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