A recent survey sheds light on how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected the mental health of Americans. According to the study, 33 percent of the American population has displayed clinical symptoms of a mental health issue since the start of the pandemic.
If you’re feeling anxious, depressed, or both, you’re not alone. The good news is there are things you can do to help protect your mental health during these uncertain times. Continue reading below to find out our top pandemic self-care tips.
Eat Regularly and Healthily
During the pandemic, most people are stuck at home. When it comes to healthy, balanced nutrition, this poses two issues. You can fall into the habit of skipping meals, or you can end up ordering a lot more greasy take-out than usual.
There’s nothing wrong with splurging on delivery once in a while. But, you must try to maintain your regular eating schedule. Don’t skip meals, and make sure you’re eating a good variety of foods.
Keep Moving
Even during a lockdown, there are ways you can keep moving and get your daily exercise in. If you have exercise equipment, that’s a great option. If not, you can find exercise videos online or make up your own routine.
You can also go for a walk around your neighborhood. Remember to keep six feet away from others and wear your mask. Another option is to play non-contact sports in your yard with others who live inside your home.
Get Enough Sleep
It’s tempting to stay up late to watch television, play on your phone, or beat that next level on your favorite video game. Even when you don’t have to be up early the following morning, it’s essential you get enough sleep.
Aim for eight hours of sleep each night. Ideally, you should stick closely to your regular sleeping and waking schedule. If you got up at six each morning before the pandemic and went to bed at ten, you should try your best to continue doing so.
Practice Self Check-Ins
The world can feel like a scary place right now. Conflicting information from uncountable sources feels overwhelming, scary, and uncertain. Feeling anxious or depressed is normal.
To help combat these sometimes intense and frightening feelings, practice self check-ins. Take a moment to ask yourself how you’re doing.
Are you not doing so well? Try to reduce your stress at the moment by practicing deep breathing. Incorporating meditation and yoga into your daily routine can also help.
Socialize Safely
Even during a pandemic, the modern world offers many ways to socialize with your friends and family safely. Texting and social media are easy, accessible options. You can also make a phone call or video chat for something more personal.
As restrictions are lessened, many people may also find getting together outside is a good option. If you’re told this is okay, remember to keep group gatherings low and maintain six feet of distance. Wear a mask anytime you have no choice but to come within six feet of another.
Do You Have More Questions About Pandemic Self-Care?
The COVID19 pandemic can feel frightening and overwhelming. While it’s easy to place self-care on a back burner, you must remember to take care of yourself both mentally and physically.
Do you have more questions about pandemic self-care? Contact us today. One of our associates would be happy to answer any questions you still have.