There’s no doubt that the pandemic has been an unpleasant experience, for some more than others. Here’s a list of tips to help you take care of your emotional health during Covid-19. These simple steps have helped me slowly dig myself out of the negative hole that the pandemic slipped me into, and I sincerely hope they help you take care of your emotional health during Covid-19.
Take Care Of Your Body
I know this seems like a no-brainer but in times of duress where there are so many crazy things going on, we often forget to take care of ourselves. When I say “take care of your body,” I mean eating healthy and well-balanced meals, exercise regularly, and get plenty of quality sleep. These things may seem trivial, but they’re all incredibly important to keep both your mind and body in tiptop shape.
Stay Informed, But Not Too Informed
Watching or reading the news is a great way to stay informed, especially in times of Covid-19 where knowing the locations of the local outbreaks is a necessary precaution. However, paying too much attention can be upsetting, stressful and can affect your emotional health during Covid-19. Be sure to regulate the amount of time you spend absorbing the news and always check your sources. Keep in mind that rumours are bound to spread on social media as well.
Connect With Your Social Circle for emotional well being
As humans, we are social animals. Our mental health depends greatly on our interactions with other people. Remember that social media isn’t a replacement for being social in person, and video chats can only do so much. Plan some Covid friendly activities with your friends or family. This will make you happy from inside and is good for your emotional well being.
Seek Help When Needed
Here’s a list of common signs of distress so you can take care of yourself and keep an eye out for your loved ones.
- Feelings of fear, anger, sadness, worry, numbness, or frustration
- Changes in appetite, energy, and activity levels
- Difficulty concentrating and making decisions
- Physical reactions, such as headaches, body pains, stomach problems, and skin rashes
- Difficulty sleeping or nightmares
- Worsening of chronic health problems
- Increased use of alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs
If you or a loved one have been experiencing these behaviors over a period of several days in a row, consider seeking professional help. The disaster distress helpline provides 24/7, 365-days-a-year crisis counselling. Also consider better help, a paid online counselling service.
Remember to take care of your emotional health during Covid-19. Do you have any advice for keeping your health in check? Let us know in the comments below.