Photo credit: Daniel
Millions of jobs have been lost, children aren’t in school and people are self-isolating. The UN Secretary General has called on the international community to do more to protect those facing mental pressures. Looking after your mental health is as important as your physical health - many people are anxious, worried and stressed due to COVID-19. If not dealt with, it will be detrimental to your well-being. Here are the healthy ways to handle it:
Find balance
While it is important to stay informed with the latest news and updates, you need to limit your exposure to it. You can’t control the news but you can manage the intake. This is especially essential for children. Their young minds ought to be provided with age appropriate information. Find time to disconnect from it all and engage in other activities like games, tackle a project or discover hidden talents you have.
This is also the ideal time to take time and reflect about the plans you have for your career, complete your profile to enable Fuzu to help you in finding the best free online courses that will equip you with leadership and soft skills as we prepare for life after COVID.
Reach out
We are sociable beings. However, we can no longer meet and hang out at social events. Social distancing is one of the measures put in place to prevent the spread of the virus. However, being in isolation has been known to lead to depression. Just because you feel lonely, doesn’t mean you are alone. You can connect virtually to friends or family via calls, texts or video calls.
Healthy routine
Not getting enough sleep increases stress levels. Avoid indulging in alcohol or caffeine, as stimulants before bed will not help. It is important to stay focused on work and managing the stress by eating healthy meals and drinks. If you still find it hard to sleep then make a pre-bedtime routine, it can be taking a long bath or physical exercise. You need to plan or have a schedule of the day. The World Health Organization has also provided a guide called Doing what matters in times of stress with practical skills on stress management.