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Mental Health during COVID-19

Fear, worry, and stress are normal responses to perceived or real threats, and at times when we are faced with uncertainty or the unknown. So it is normal and understandable that people are experiencing fear in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. It’s taking a toll on even the most optimistic of us as we try to stay positive amidst what feels like bleaker and bleaker news each day.

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Added to the fear of contracting the virus in a pandemic such as COVID-19 are the significant changes to our daily lives as our movements are restricted in support of efforts to contain and slow down the spread of the virus.

 

Faced with new realities of working from home, temporary unemployment, home-schooling of children, and lack of physical contact with other family members, friends and colleagues, it is important that we look after our mental, as well as our physical, health.

"There is no health without mental health; one cannot and will not be healthy without a healthy mind"

Mental Status during the Pandemic: Are you feeling vulnerable?

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How does COVID affect one's mental health?

Those suffering from anxiety, depression, PTS, substance abuse, and other forms of chronic mental illness are some of the most vulnerable right now in terms of loneliness, isolation, and potential for self-destructive behaviour due to a lack of consistent support and a disrupted routine.

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  • Substance Abuse and COVIDThe big concern for those in treatment for substance abuse is the risk of relapse.
     

  • Anxiety and COVID
    For patients suffering from the persistent sense of impending doom or danger, the COVID-19 pandemic may create an elevated fear of catching or dying from the virus. Anxiety sufferers are prone to imaginary threats, which can result in behaviours like panic buying or trying different medications and treatments in an effort to “cure” or prevent coronavirus.
     

  • Depression and COVID
    Just as with anxiety, the fear and isolation can be very dangerous for those with depression, because without an outside influence to remind them of the good, they may instead focus solely on the bad news and develop a skewed sense of the situation.
     

  • Eating Disorders and COVID
    For the patients, the main concern is either around the perceived fear of lack of supplies, or anxiety as the gyms get closed.
     

  • ADHD and COVID
    due to their inability to focus or stay on task, some patients with ADHD may not be able to follow the strict guidelines or be as productive with online courses.

Tips to Take Care of Your Mental Health during COVID

 

2020 is tough for all of us. During uncontrollable pandemic, it is important that do what we are capable within our ability range. And master it!

The current circumstances could be frustrating and perhaps a bit depressive for each of us. So, the most important thing is to not beat yourself up! There is always a rainbow after the storm. Just take care and we'll eventually get there! Use this time to unwind and slow down from the busy lifestyle.

Do's

  • Follow COVID restrictions

  • Regular exercise

  • Balanced diet

  • Practise mindfulness

  • Regular daily routines

  • Be socially active online

  • Take a break from routine work life 

  • Keep a good sleep cycle

The followings are the small steps you can take to reduce distress. Try and see if works!

  • Limit the Amount of News You Watch. Having relax time is equally as important as keeping up with the busy world. Be sure to give yourself a break from the negative news; life is already hard enough.
     

  • Take Care Of Yourself Physically
    • Avoiding junk food 
    • Eating healthy meals 
    • Getting enough sleep
    • Exercise regularly
    • Avoid excessive alcohol use
     

  • Taking medication as prescribed. COVID may mean lockdown of schools or recreational places. Yet, mental disorders do not take day offs. Don't forget to do what you CAN to help yourself feel better. Even if it is only a bit.
     

  • Talk to Other People. This could be a friend via phone or a counsellor. Humans are sociable animals. Relationships play a key role in maintaining our mental wellbeing. Get a trusted person to talk about your feelings and emotions!
     

  • Be Sure to Do What You Enjoy. Life does not just stop because of pandemic. Use your extra time wisely on things you would love to do but did not have enough time to make it happen before.
     

  • Gives you tools to manage stress. Download apps, start journaling or recordings to keep track on your life.
     

  • Reduces negative emotions or attitudes. Actively stop yourself when you found yourself complaining.
     

  • Nourishes creativity. Read books, do art, even create your own music piece. Fulfil yourself mentally.
     

  • Use social media carefully. Don't get carry away by the fake news. Stay awake. Stay critical. Stay alarmed.
     

  • Practice meditation can help relieve stress. Learning breathing techniques does not only help you become more patient and productive but allows you to clearly focus on the present.

Don'ts

  • Substance use

  • Eating too much fast food

  • Excessive online activities

  • Excessive news intake

  • Partying; travelling

  • Focussing on the negative aspects

  • Believing in fake news 

  • Spreading fake news about COVID

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