We’re halfway through the year, and the COVID-19 pandemic is still here. It has ruined a lot of plans and lives, and it left us inside our homes, feeling a lot of emotions. It is indeed a challenging time, not only for the health sector but for all industries and individuals.
If you need help in managing your thoughts and feelings during this strange time, here are the simple things you can do to take control of your overall wellness:
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Continue making connections
People need human connection no matter how much one loves spending time alone. Connecting with another breathing, alive human being, especially during a pandemic time, can help improve one’s mental and physical health. Sometimes, feeling and seeing other people experiencing the same loneliness or anxiety like you help make everything feel a little less difficult.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, a lot of companies and groups organize virtual events you can join. If you love meeting and bonding with people, you can participate in virtual forums. If you prefer to be a listener, there are also talks and seminars online that you can catch on a specific schedule. If you prefer alone time in a not-so-alone setup, there are also virtual coffee groups where you can work quietly with other people.
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Live one day at a time
A lot of plans and even lives changed because of this pandemic. Listing down life goals or thinking about the future can bring so much anxiety and stress to some people. After all, it’s an unpredictable time.
One thing that can help you manage this uneasiness is through living one day at a time. Remember that it’s okay not to know everything now. People all over the world are struggling because of the pandemic. It’s okay if you will just live at the moment and simply try to survive the day.
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Be kind to others including yourself
No one is expecting you to be strong all the time. It’s okay to feel pressured or stressed over things you are expected to do. If you feel like you can’t do your tasks alone, it’s best to ask for help. If you see that friends and family also experience the same, be willing to help if you can. There’s a pandemic, and it’s not the right time to be angry or harsh to other people. Understand that everyone is struggling in one way or another, so always choose to be kind.
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Create a routine
It’s not an easy time to force yourself to work or keep up with life, but sometimes, you have no choice but to do so. Try building a routine to help you cope with this. Having a specific task to do at a certain time can help you adapt better to the new situation. You should also add a break in your schedule. Not because you’re working from home doesn’t mean you’re present and available to serve other people at all times. Set your working hours and stick with it. Then, have a good rest after.
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Know your triggers
Observe yourself and check when you feel distressed the most. Is it when you hear about the recent news? Or when you start to worry about the future? Once you identify your red flags, be active in avoiding these triggers. If they’re red flags that cannot be avoided, create a simple relaxing routine to help you manage your stress. Breathing in and out repeatedly and slowly can help make you feel better.
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Take care of yourself
Sometimes, an effort is necessary to have a healthy life. Since you are aware of how stressful the time is, you should be proactive in getting a good and healthy life you want. Have at least eight hours of sleep, eat healthy food, and do your exercise. Start small and improve these steps as you go through the journey. Taking care of yourself is essential in maintaining good mental health. It’s not an act of selfishness.
Conclusion
The COVID-19 pandemic is one of the worst times that will test one’s mental health. It’s an unavoidable situation, but there are steps you can take to help lessen your burden. Don’t hesitate to seek help from friends and family when you feel like you can no longer face it alone. Consulting with a mental health expert can also help you manage your wellness better.
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