We are all experiencing stress in different ways during the COVID-19 pandemic. Fear and anxiety during times of uncertainty, upheaval, and changed daily routines can be overwhelming for adults and children. Social distancing makes it even more challenging. Learning to cope with stress in healthy ways will make you, the people you care about, and our community stronger! Here are 10 tips particularly for those quarantined at home to help prioritize your mental health during this time:
1. Create a routine — Change out of your pajamas, shower and make a to-do of all the things you want to achieve each day to create a sense of normality and productivity.
2. Break up your day — Find tasks to break up your day and, where possible, change your environment for different activities.
3. Take care of your body — Eat healthily, get plenty of sleep and exercise daily. That could include conducting indoor workout classes, stretching and practicing meditation.
4. Help others — If you’re not under strict isolation rules yourself, and you’re in a position to do so, find ways to support those in need by offering to run errands and collect supplies for them.
5. Stay connected — Make the most of technology and stay in touch with colleagues, friends and family via phone calls, texts, social media and video conferencing.
6. Limit media intake — Stay informed about the situation via reliable sources, but limit your news and social media intake to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
7. Fight boredom — Make the most of catching up TV series, reading and exploring projects you have been putting off to beat boredom and stay mentally active.
8. Avoid burnout — Set strict limits to your work to avoid becoming overwhelmed and make time to unwind.
9. Focus on the positives — Amplify good news stories and honor caregivers working tirelessly to resolve the situation.
10. Take one day at a time — Try not to project too far into the future. Remember that these are temporary measures and you are not alone.
We know we won’t be in crisis mode forever, but stress won’t disappear from our lives when the health crisis of COVID-19 ends. Make it a commitment to continue self-care practices to prioritize your mental health and increase your ability to cope with life’s ongoing challenges! Together, we can learn to be resilient people in the midst of challenging times.