Protect Your Mental Health During Covid-19

Social distancing, self-isolation, and quarantine are terms that have become associated with the Covid 19 pandemic. This dangerous outbreak has turned our lives upside down. Many people around the world are suffering from depression and anxiety as they live in fear of uncertainty. During such challenging time taking care of mental health and well-being becomes crucial to help cope with the situation. Here are few tips on how to look after your mental health during such stressful times.

1. Spend quality time with your children. This is a distressing time for everyone including children. Explain in a simple way the impact of the coronavirus and encourage them to inform you if they are feeling any symptoms. Try to maintain a routine at home and keep the children engaged with useful activities like reading, painting or cook a meal together.

2. Broaden your horizons by doing a daily crossword puzzle, take a virtual dance lessons, learn to play an instrument or become fluent in another language.

3. Exercise regularly at home. Regular physical activity has a positive impact on depression and anxiety. It enhances the mental well-being through the release of endorphins like serotonin which help to relieve tension and stress, boost mental energy and enhance the mood.

4. Enjoy the sunshine even if its just for 30 minutes. Vitamin D is key to boosting the immune system which is extremely important at this time. The sun also helps to improve the mood and balance hormones.

5. Avoid binge eating and stick to a healthy diet. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. Try to incorporate foods that give you a good share of Vitamin C and increase your Zinc levels. Blueberries, dark chocolate, ginger, turmeric, sweet potato, almonds, broccoli, oily fish like salmon all help to prepare your immune system to fight infectious diseases.

6. Get good sleep. Avoid using your cellphone or computer an hour before you sleep. Keep your bedroom dark, cool and quiet, and refrain from doing anything other than sleeping in your bedroom. Quality sleep is essential to help you stay energized.

7. Minimize watching, reading or listening to news about the Covid-19 if you find it too overwhelming. Listening to news from different sources can be distressing and confusing. Listen to news from reliable sources only and take a break to help clear your mind.

8. Stay Connected with your family and friends. In spite of social distancing you can still stay connected to your family and friends by calling them regularly, sending emails, messages on social media or video conferencing.

9. Maintain a work life balance if you are working from home. Create a work space for yourself, but avoid the bedroom. Set time limits for yourself. Do not sit for a long time glued to your computer. Take short breaks and walk around the house, this will help to refresh your mind.

10. Maintain a positive outlook. Remind yourself that this is a temporary situation and your self- isolation is helping to slow down the spread of the virus. Remind yourself that you are doing a good deed by helping the wider community not to be affected with this virus.

At all times remember that you are not alone in this crisis. Millions around the world are passing through the same feelings and emotions. However, we all have to Stay Safe, Stay Healthy and Stay Positive.