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Surviving COVID-19- Tips for managing mental health
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15 April 2020

Surviving COVID-19- Tips for managing mental health

While self-isolation is important for managing COVID-19, it may have a significant impact on mental health. Mindright recommend the following for mood, anxiety and stress management during isolation.

 

  1. Set a routine: Go to bed and wake up at a reasonable time and set a routine for each day that balances work, self-care and connection.
  2. Self Care: shower each day and be dressed by a reasonable hour. Brush your teeth, put bright clothing on and brush your hair.
  3. Leave the house: leave the house for some fresh air at least 30 min a day. If you are unable to leave the house open your blinds and windows for sunlight and fresh air.
  4. Exercise: move your body each day for mood and anxiety management. You can do this outside or access an online exercise program to do at home.
  5. Connect to others: check in with friends and family on the phone or through FaceTime. Most people find that they feel more connected than they think they will before reaching out on the phone. Plan a virtual cup of tea, meal or drink with friends and family. Arrange a virtual play date for children so that they can continue to connect with their peers
  6. Stay hydrated and eat regular meals
  7. Practice acceptance: there is not much you can do to directly control the impact of COVID-19. Know you are not alone. Accept yourself and the situation for what it is right now.
  8. Limit social media and COVID conversations: while it is helpful to be informed about what is happening with COVID and what you can do to be safe, over-doing social media and COVID googling do not provide additional benefit and only reinforce anxiety and stress. Set limits each day to checking and scrolling aimlessly though social media.
  9. Identify a new project: start something new and use this additional time at home to work on a new skill, project or hobby. Gardening, art, cooking, a new language, reading a book are some suggestions.
  10. Be patient of those around you: There is no doubt that isolation can impact on stress in relationships. Practice patience and giving the benefit of the doubt. Practice taking deep breaths or having 5-10 minutes to yourself before communicating any concerns to your partner or family member. Remember this is a difficult time for everyone.