The outbreak of the Coronavirus Covid-19 has
impacted people in varying ways on an international scale. It is natural to
feel stress, anxiety, grief, and worry during and after a situation like this.
People are overwhelmed by the constantly changing alerts and media coverage
regarding the spread of the virus. Our mental health is equally as important as
our physical health during this time. While we are keeping physically distant,
it is more important than ever that we remain socially and emotionally connected.
How it might affect our Mental Health?
●
Having irrational thoughts.
●
Fear and worry about our
own health status and that of our loved ones who may have been exposed to
Covid-19.
●
Worsening of chronic health
problems.
●
Feeling stressed, insecure
or unsettled.
●
Becoming irritable more
easily.
●
Difficulty sleeping or
concentrating.
●
Changes in sleep or eating
patterns.
●
Increased use of alcohol,
tobacco, or other drugs.
How to mind our mental health during this time?
❖
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle- Our routine may be affected by the corona virus outbreak
in different ways. But during difficult times like this, it’s best if we can
keep some structure in our day. For example:
●
Setting up a daily routine.
Plan activities that are fun (such as reading, watching movies, hobbies) and
that give you a sense of achievement (such as cleaning, completing work tasks,
learning a new skill).
●
Eat well—plan and eat a
variety of nutritious meals.
●
Staying active—create an
exercise routine that can be completed at home, to maintain physical fitness
and reduce stress.
●
Staying connected with
friends and family via phone, chat, email, or video conferencing.
❖ Staying connected- During
times of stress, friends and families can be a good source of support. It is
important to keep in touch with them and other people in your life. If you need
to restrict your movements or self-isolate, try to stay connected to people in
other ways, for example: email, social media, video calls, phone calls, text
messages and so on.
❖ Taking breaks -
Take deep breaths, stretch or meditate. Make time to unwind and remind yourself
that negative feelings will fade. Try to do activities you usually enjoy. Maintain
a sense of hope and positive thinking.
❖ Staying Positive-We should
remember that, even the situation is unpleasant now but it will pass. What you
say to yourself is important. Listen to the things you are saying to yourself
and change negative comments to be more helpful and realistic.
“Remember to maintain a positive outlook,
no matter how grim your circumstances. This will end and we will be okay”.
- Sujan Dhakal
NOREC exchange fellow
NOREC exchange fellow
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