Taking Care of Your Mental Health During the Pandemic

The recent pandemic has led to natural increases in stress, worry and anxiety for many people around the world. The uncertainty associated with the virus, the disruption to usual routines, and the need for working from home or self-isolating can have significant impacts on your wellbeing and mental health. How can you better manage your mental health through these trying times? Here are some tips.

Over the past few months, we have been asked to keep a safe, social distance from others, heighten our personal hygiene by washing our hands frequently, wear face coverings and more. The pandemic and establishment of a new normal have increased levels of distress and anxiety, particularly because of the social isolation, constant barrage of information, change of routine and new social norms.

For many, these changes can have a profound effect on one’s mental health. So how can we protect our mental health? Here are some steps you might find useful.

The World Health Organization recommends that you minimize watching, reading or listening to news about the virus that causes you anxiety or distress. Instead, get updates at specific times during the day, maybe during the morning and evening instead of checking your phone every few hours. There’s also a lot of misinformation swirling around so make sure you fact check that Whatsapp message forwarded by your aunt or uncle from that family group chat you are in. Facts can help to minimize fears and reduce panic.

It is important for wellbeing to keep a regular routine and try to keep it as normal as possible. Try to wake up, eat, work, and sleep at regular times. Take mini breaks throughout the day and hydrate yourself when working. This also becomes an opportunity to set a healthier routine for yourself for the long term like more sleeping, more exercising, less social media and a healthier diet. Adelphi University psychology professor Deborah Serani said that unstructured schedules could create boredom as well as spikes in anxiety or depression, which can then lead to unhealthy patterns of coping.

While working from home, employees often feel compelled to project the appearance of productivity, but this can lead to burnout and stress. Working all the time isn’t the answer. Stick to a schedule, identify the important tasks and take mini breaks throughout the day. It is important to carve out non-work time and balance out your life indoors. Try going for a walk or a short run during your lunch break. Otherwise, some mindful meditation or yoga can also help calm your mind.