We’re nearly finished with 2020, and a lot of events have happened. The most prominent one, the coronavirus pandemic, is still imminent and has completely changed how we live. This pandemic has changed every aspect of our lives, from our work to our mental health.
The government placed strict stay-at-home protocols in March, but social distancing became social isolation after a few months. This predicament was not sitting very well for some people.
Dr. Robert Leahy, the attending psychologist at New York-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center points out that most of us contemplate, feel helpless, and depressed.
“This is the perfect storm for depression and anxiety.”
Dr. Robert Leahy
Although we need to practice social and physical distancing, there are some ways for you to lift your mood. Here are some steps in preserving your mental health during the pandemic.
Know Your Support System
Creating a support system is one of the best ways to cope up with the happenings around you. Your support system can include your family, friends, a therapist, or an online community. These people can talk to you and help you relieve some negative emotions. They can also assist you in learning some positive coping mechanisms.
However, remember that some of your friends and family may experience helplessness and anxiety. It is wise to ask those people you want to add to your support system if they’re alright with it.
Keep Your Expectations in Moderate
When things are not going as the way you perceived it, you may find yourself disappointed and sad. In tough times like this pandemic, we should always remember that we need to set our moderate expectations. It’s nice to think about bold ideas; however, you need to think realistically and face the facts.
Disconnect
With most people doing remote work and staying at home, people are in front of their electronic devices 24/7. Take time to disconnect and try to stay away from your television and mobile devices.
You can take a nap, read a book, or stare out your window and look at your surroundings. By doing this, you’ll let your mind breathe and calm yourself.
“Worry Time”
Schedule a “worry time” if you’re working or studying all day long. Take 15-20 minutes every day to go over things that you’re worried about. This way, you can focus more on your tasks in school or at work.
As hurtful and worrying as it seems, we need to acknowledge the state we are in. Everyone has the right to feel anxious, sad, lonely, or whatever negative feelings they’re harboring. Do not fight your emotions as it will bite you back. However, we should always think of creative and sane ways to cope up with these feelings.
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