The outbreak of COVID-19 disease 2019 may be very stressful for most of us. Fear and anxiety about a disease can be overwhelming. Not only that but it can cause strong emotions in adults and children. Coping with stress will make you, the people you care about, and your community stronger but how to do it? Not only taking care of yourself but also your friends, and your family can help you cope with stress.
Here are some of the points about what to do to deal with any mental health problems we might have or going to have.
Daily Routine
During these challenging times one of the things, for some very simple for some not so much is stick to a routine. For example, if you’re used to going to the gym before work, try to wake up early and get an at-home workout in before you leave to work. If you start your workday from home do the same. Carry on your day as normal how it was before the virus situation as much as possible. Your daily routine can help keep your mood lifted but mainly will prevent boredom and distress from taking over.
If you have children create a schedule for learning, relaxing and fun activities. The balance is very important and will keep your family happy and focused.
Very Good Sleep
While you’re at home, specially if you do not need to go to work it can be easy to go to bed or sleep in later than you typically would. This case breaking your normal sleep routine can have negative effects on your mental wellbeing. What to do? Try to stick to your typical schedule as much as possible and if you usually wake up at 7am every morning carry on like this. If you go to sleep at 10pm also try to stick to the same time.
Stay Outside as Much as You Can
Exercising outside or walks also simply spending time in your garden will help you maintain a healthy lifestyle, both physically and mentally.
Being outside when the sun is out also helps to promote higher vitamin D levels when we are exposed to direct sunshine. Every 15-30min makes a huge difference.
Power of Technology
Virtual communication can not only help you but also your loved ones feel less lonely and isolated. It is recommended to reach out to loved ones with technology to reduce feelings of loneliness and anxiety. Do it through phone, emails, video calls, messages. This will supplement your social life while you’re social distancing. So talk to people, family and friends. Also be active on social blogs and community groups. Sharing with others about your daily routine can be very powerful and you will feel much better.
Practice Positivity and Gratitude
Take five minutes a day to write down the things that you are grateful for. This can help lower stress levels and change your mindset from negative to positive. It is very powerful and also gives more space in your brain for new positive words and thoughts you are creating each day.
Take Care of Your Body
Take deep breaths, stretch, meditate and do indoors and outdoors regular exercises. Keep moving and relax your mind and body at the same time as much as possible. Stay calm and focus on the ways you enjoy to do. Whatever it is running, jumping or simply dancing at home do it and get your family involve. Together is better and more fun too. Also watch what you eat and keep healthy.
