The pandemic has not only impacted the physical world, it has also challenged people's mental health. Even once the coronavirus subsides, the impact of the pandemic on people's personal experiences will be felt for many years. One reason COVID-19 and mental health are connected is the pandemic has led to business shutdowns and employees losing their jobs, resulting in widespread anxiety.
Here are tips to follow for reducing the negative impact of the pandemic on your mental health:
1. Screen your news sources
There's no reason to stay glued to your television to find out the latest developments with the coronavirus. Much of the information about the virus in the media is repeated from health organizations such as the World Health Organization. Try to avoid absorbing too much speculation about the virus and stick with confirmed facts from authoritative sources.
2. Experiment with stress reduction methods
Various stress reduction techniques can be practiced that lead to relaxation. Deep breathing is one of the easiest ways to relax. An effective relaxation technique is to take a deep breath while counting to five, then holding your breath while counting to five, and releasing the air over a count of five.
3. Look for virtual support
You can find mental health organizations that offer online tools for stress management. Using virtual support can involve getting automated responses to questions. Sometimes just communicating with others online, such as through social media, can help relieve stress or anxiety.
4. Focus on what you're able to control
Don't worry about things that are beyond your control. If you concentrate on what you can control, you can be happier and more productive. Making a list of the items you can and can't control helps prioritize your daily activities. It can help remind you not to waste too much time worrying about what you can't control.
5. Eat nutritious food
One of the best investments you can ever make is in your physical health, which ultimately affects your mental health. Binging on sugary or junk food uses up energy and makes the body work harder, leading to fatigue and depression. Eating healthy, nutritious fruits and vegetables can boost your energy level, immune system, and feeling of wellbeing.
6. Prepare for changes in the workplace
Being prepared and alert help make an individual more resilient during a crisis. If your job hasn't yet shifted to work at home experience, be ready in case shutdowns get more strict. If you're already working at home and have anxiety about returning to the workplace, prepare yourself for the transition by planning your waking and sleeping hours. Try to focus on the benefits of returning to your normal workplace.
7. Don't stress out over job hunting
Millions of people have lost their jobs due to the pandemic, creating a rising pool of job hunters. Finding a job has become very competitive now that companies can use AI software to sort through job applications to find the best candidates based on customized criteria. Fortunately, with the rise in remote work, new job opportunities are opening up that didn't exist before the pandemic.
8. Get involved in a creative project
One of the best ways to overcome the psychological impact of COVID-19 is to contribute to an artistic endeavor or community effort. An example might be for musicians to unite and organize a virtual benefit concert to raise money for a cause. Finding some way to give to others helps boost self-confidence and mental health.
Maintaining good mental health is one of the many challenges the pandemic presents. Following these tips will raise self-awareness and give you the ability to control your emotions throughout the crisis. Contact the experts at
Fuller Insurance today in Southern California to learn more about getting appropriate insurance coverage for your needs.
