Coronavirus plucked the normal life out of people and threw them into the world of uncertainty. With that, the constant news about the pandemic has always felt relentless. When the population is trying to limit itself inside their homes, the looming danger is of their mental well-being. Recently, as the news fo Bollywood actor Sushant Singh Rajput’s suicide hit the internet, people have opened up to speak more about the mental health of the population in general. Keeping this in mind, Wedding Affair accumulates some general mental health care tips to keep our readers aware and healthy.
Respite from the Social Media Bustle
People get more attached to social media in the time of isolation. Now since people have more free time in isolation, everyone in constant contact. European Patient’s Forum (EPF) advises to develop a daily schedule and do your best to mute keywords which might be triggering on Twitter and unfollow or mute accounts. Also, mute WhatsApp groups and hide Facebook posts and feeds if you find them too overwhelming, EPF further suggests.
Practising Positivity & Gratitude
Instead of focusing on people getting sick focus on the number of people who recovered, 1mg suggests. Soothe your anxiety by practising gratitude. And keep reminding yourself how special and beautiful life is, even under stressful conditions. Honour and acknowledge the role of healthcare and frontline workers, according to the website. Stigma or fear towards them can make this challenging situation far worse.
Seeking Help
Stigma can prevent families from seeking support. But it’s through support that you can gain more strength and valuable knowledge. Consult a counsellor or doctor if you feel your loved one is finding it hard to cope with the illness. These days several online sources are available to vent out the things disturbing you. Contact the convenient helpline numbers to seek full mental health support.
Undertaking certain Activities
There are still weeks and months of the coronavirus pandemic ahead. So, it is important to have downtime and stay active. EPF’s Grants and Office Coordinator Ruth likes to break a sweat alongside her young daughter. “During the lockdown, I’ve been doing regular workouts at home to stay focused and feel good. Sometimes my three-year-old daughter joins in too so I get to kill two birds with one stone. It’s the perfect way to clear the mind.”
EPF recommends continuing to access nature and sunlight wherever possible. This may become increasingly difficult but do your best to stretch, move around and break a bit of a sweat. A diet chock full of nutrients and vitamins is strongly recommended by EPF. While it may be easy to order delivery instead of risking the supermarket, a healthy and balanced diet works wonders for your immune system and mental state. Plenty of water helps too.
Connect with your Feelings
Missing events with friends, hobbies and sports is very disappointing. “These are major losses. They are very upsetting for all, including teenagers”, Dr Damour says. What is the best way to deal with disappointment? Allow yourself to feel it. “When it comes to having a painful feeling, the only way out is through. Go be sad, and if you allow yourself to do it, you will feel better soon.” (Source: UNICEF)
Everyone processes their feelings in a different way. “Some children are going to make art, some are going to want to talk to their friends and use their shared sadness as a way to feel connected in a time when they can’t be together in person, and some children are going to want to find ways to get food to food banks”, says Dr Damour. It’s important to do what you feel is right and useful. (Source: UNICEF)
