Mental Health during Covid-19

At Just A Thought Allied Health, we understand the effects that the current COVID-19 virus situation is having on the community and our mental health. Increased stress, anxiety and feelings of uncertainty can impact the way we do things. It is important that we do what we can to maintain our well-being to get through this difficult period. Here are some ways that can help you look after yourself.

Limit media exposure

It is important to keep updated and informed. However, taking in large amounts of negative information can make us feel more anxious. Try and limit exposure to the media where you can. Try and challenge yourself by putting down the phone every once in a while.

Know the facts

Seek information and/or advice from trusted sources. Examples include:

· Government websites;

· The World Health Organization;

· The ABC.

Talk, don’t just type

Be old fashioned, actually talk and not just type. Use your phone or your computer to hear familiar voices and see familiar faces. It can be a great way to help you feel connected. Hearing a voice or seeing a face can be a great way to deal with feelings of isolation and help tackle some difficult feelings.

Routine, routine, routine

It’s important for our well-being, more than ever, to maintain a regular routine. Routine brings structure, certainty and purpose to our day. You can do this by:

· Waking up and going to bed up at the same time every day;

· Penciling in time for regular exercise;

· Eating healthy and well-balanced meals;

· Remember, if you don’t fulfill your routine, that’s OK. Try again the next day.

Take a break

Aim to set aside time from things like work, screens, or even the family to do something you enjoy. Give your mind time to heal from anxiety and stress. Try and list a range of activities that you enjoy, you may discover one that you have not done for a while.

Get sweaty

Even the smallest amount of exercise is good for our physical and mental health. You can do this by:

· Trying not to sit in one place all day;

· Getting outside and going for a run or walk;

· Missing Gym? Go on YouTube or download an app and do a workout at home. (Refer to previous blog post for some great tips for working out with kids!)

Practice Mindfulness

Mindfulness is a great way to look after ourselves. It is the human ability to be fully present and aware of the world around us, but also, fully aware of where we are and what we are doing. Like a home workout you can go on YouTube or download an App to practice mindfulness. Here are some great apps that you can download:

· Smiling Mind;

· The Resilience Project (I highly recommend this one).

Be kind to yourself

Check in with yourself on a daily basis to see how you are feeling and seek support if you need it. It is OK to not be OK, help is out there!

Reach out

Everyone out there is doing it tough right now, in one way or another. Check in with your family, friends or even your neighbour. Give it a go, you may be surprised how good it makes you feel afterwards. Even something as simple as smiling at someone can brighten someone’s day. But importantly, try and keep in mind that we need to look after ourselves in order to assist others to the best of our ability Think of it like an airplane: you must put on your own mask before assisting others.

Keep positive, stay connected, look after yourself. We will all come out of this on the other side.

#InItTogether

Patrick – Occupational Therapist