With coronavirus (COVID-19) dominating all the news headlines and our social media feeds, it is hard not to get caught up in all the hype, hysteria, worry and concern. At times like this it is vital to remember that taking care of your mental health is as important as looking after your physical health. Good mental health and positive wellbeing can help you to cope better with the COVID-19 threat and the uncertainty it’s creating both at home and abroad.
Fear not, here are some tips that may help you look after your mental health during these uncertain times;
- Stay positive and focus on the positive things in your life i.e. getting to spend time with the people you love most in the world.
- Maintain your daily routine as much as possible i.e. eating healthy meals, getting enough sleep and doing things that you enjoy.
- Prioritise your well-being and positive mental health by engaging in activities i.e. walking/hiking, yoga and meditating.
- Focus on things you can control. good hygiene, instead of things you can’t i.e. stopping the virus.
- Set boundaries on how much news you read, watch or listen to.
- Avoid speculation and sensationalising.
- Ensure your information is from a reliable, accurate and legitimate source.
- Reach out to others and support people around you while also keeping in touch with your friends and family.
- Recognise your feelings i.e. feeling overwhelmed, stressed, anxious or upset. These are normal feelings in these uncertain times.
- Allow yourself time to notice and express what you’re feeling i.e. writing down your feelings in a journal, talking to others, doing something creative, or practising meditation.
If you are feeling down for long periods of time over the next few weeks or feel like you are stuck in a rut that you just cannot get out of, it is worth speaking to someone about how you are feeling. Reach out, do not suffer alone & remember…
“It’s Okay not to be Okay & It’s absolutely Okay to ask for help!”
The article is written by Leanne, Trainee Counsellor at The DMC Clinic. If you would like to discuss how any of the topics mentioned above are impacting your mental health, please contact The DMC Clinic to arrange an appointment. We have currently closed the clinic premises but we can offer Skype or phone call sessions if you would like to talk to a Therapist during this difficult time.
