The Covid-19 epidemic has drastically changed the way we live, work, and connect each other. We are experiencing a collective crisis, the likes of which most of us have never encountered. Right now, it is NORMAL to be experiencing a whole host of emotions, including anxiety, anger, sadness, and uncertainty. Our minds and our bodies are closely connected, so it is also likely that you are losing sleep and experiencing other physical symptoms, such as muscle tension, aches and pains, headaches, and low energy.
However, we’ve made it this far! We should all be considered “Super-Hero’s” for making it through this challenging time. Now more than ever, we need to put on our “Super-Hero capes”, be good to ourselves and help others. WE ARE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER!
Healthy Ways to Cope with Stress
Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories, including those on social media. It’s good to be informed but hearing about the pandemic constantly can be upsetting. Consider limiting news to just a couple times a day and disconnecting from phone, tv, and computer screens for a while.
Take care of your body
Take deep breaths, stretch, or meditate.
Continue with routine preventive measures (such as vaccinations, cancer screenings, etc.) as recommended by your healthcare provider.
Get vaccinated with a COVID-19 vaccine.
Make time to unwind — Try to do some other activities you enjoy.
Connect with others — Talk with people you trust about your concerns and how you are feeling.
Connect with your community- or faith-based organizations — While social distancing measures are in place, try connecting online, through social media, or by phone or mail.
Another great coping tip is to try to complete each of these activities every day. Be gentle with yourself and realistic!
Ø A regular sleep schedule Ø A self-care activity
Ø A social activity Ø A productive activity
Ø A physical activity Ø A pleasurable activity
History has shown that the mental health impact of disasters outlasts the physical impact, suggesting today’s elevated mental health need will continue well beyond the coronavirus outbreak itself. Let’s take the bull by the horns and do something for ourselves, for our families and for our communities:
Become a Mental Health “Super Hero” in your community by:
· Looking after your own physical health – you can’t help others without being healthy yourself.
· Practicing mindfulness, being in the moment and enjoying it.
· Trying new ways to look after your own mental health.
· Helping or supporting friends or family to stay mentally well.
· Raising awareness of mental health needs, helping remove the negative stigma of mental health issues.
· Doing something nice for someone or yourself each day.
Start small and before you know it, your “Super-Hero” cape will be flying in the breeze behind you and your mental health will be better than ever!