Finding a sense of balance and belonging during these difficult times can seem impossible, and taking measures to ensure your mental health might be the last thing on your mind. However, doing so can bring a sense of stability to your daily routine. Below are five ways to care for your mental health during quarantine.
1. Avoid Information Overload
As important as it is to stay informed during this pandemic, it’s equally crucial you take occasional breaks from the media coverage surrounding it. In fact, doing so can help you cope with the myriad issues regarding the outbreak. There is a fine line between informational and distressing, so taking measures to ensure you’re capable of absorbing the news will help you to better evaluate your current situation.
2. Exercise and Eat Right
While measures taken during COVID-19 may have caused changes to your diet and exercise regime, it’s important to continue your health goals regardless. Utilizing online platforms to achieve your fitness goals can be an excellent way to prevent weight gain and reduce stress. In addition, maintaining a well-balanced diet will help you better cope with any financial, fear, or stress-related concerns. Taking a hormone balance supplement can provide relief for a number of stress-related issues such as lack of sleep, weight gain, and acne.
3. Make a Schedule and Do Your Best To Stick With It
Though this transition may be challenging, committing to some form of a schedule can help you find a sense of routine. As tempting as it is to sleep in late, procrastinate on your work, and raid the kitchen, you’ll find a better sense of balance by sticking to a plan. If possible, keep normal work hours. This doesn’t have to be strictly adhered to, but setting achievable work goals will keep you on track and feeling productive. Dressing for the day, regardless of whether you have plans, can also help as your casual but planned ensemble will support your habit of routine.
Exercise and eat when you normally do as well to add an extra layer of normalcy to your day. However, times right now are different, and holding yourself to post COVID standards and restrictions will do more harm for your mental health than good. Refrain from setting unrealistic goals for yourself in order to avoid your feelings.
4. Find Creative Ways To Maintain Connection
With social distancing practices in effect, finding a sense of community can be tricky. However, doing your best to maintain connection with family and friends can have a positive impact on both you and your loved ones. Schedule regular check-ins via phone or Skype. Avoid overly negative or polarizing discussions, but make sure to engage. If you’re feeling really expressive, write a letter. Doing so will help make your communications more appealing, not to mention give it a personal touch.
5. Find Mental Well-Being in Activities
It’s crucial to pay attention to your overall health now more than ever. Finding time during your week to enjoy as many cognitive reprieves as you can will help you achieve a sense of balance. Seek as much healthy satisfaction as you can where you can. Take walks in the sunshine. Enjoy a book or magazine outside. Engaging in something fun with an end result such as a puzzle or craft can be especially gratifying as you’ll have a finished product to enjoy after completion.
Remember, it’s okay not to be okay. Keeping this piece of advice in mind can help you mentally as well as emotionally. Check in with yourself throughout the day. Keep a journal. While it can be easy to slip into robot mode, avoiding your emotional responses during these times can only hinder your recovery.
Keeping in mind that your emotional goal is not perfection but satisfaction can help you avoid setting unachievable objectives. These times are trying for everyone, but careful attention to your current state can help you maintain a sense of normalcy. By utilizing just a few of these helpful tips, you’ll avoid compounding your present difficulties by neglecting your mental health.
