Maintaining Mental Wellness During the COVID-19 Pandemic

With the ongoing pandemic while ensuring physical well being, it is extremely vital to keep mental wellness in check. The pandemic has resulted in drastic changes in the mental health of a vast majority. Following are a few steps that can be taken to maintain mental wellness during these tough times. 

1. Maintain a Routine:

A study by Sarina Schrager of National Institute of Health in Maryland USA suggested that maintaining a routine increases productivity and reduces stress largely. Fixing up a schedule for each day of the week and tasks with deadlines increase motivation and keep the brain preoccupied. These distractions from the current situation facilitate better functioning and an improved mental state.‍

2. Exercise:

Any form of physical activity done on a regular basis reduces anxiety and increases productivity. Staying physically active also facilitates better metabolism, growth, better health and reduces the risk of various chronic illnesses. Due to the pandemic and most of the facilities for physical activities such as gyms and parks being shut, people have started taking to working out from home with the help of online trainers and fitness startups that function remotely. ‍

3. Limit Your Media Consumption:‍

Mental health is not to be taken lightly especially during a raging pandemic and is equally as important as maintaining physical wellbeing. Be well informed about the ongoing pandemic and refrain from being influenced by the negativity that’s being spread through various forms of media. Remember that we’re all in this together. Always be open to lending a helping hand and never hesitate to seek help in times of need.

‍4. Stay Connected To Others:

Everybody is facing trying times and they might continue to exist for a while due to the ongoing circumstances. Hence, keep in touch with your contacts. You don’t know whom you might be helping by dropping that text or making that call. In return, it also helps improve the state of your mental being. Venting out, understanding others and seeking comfort is totally okay.

5. Ensure A Healthy Diet:

A healthy diet ensures better nutrition and better health. Studies show that a healthy diet boosts immunity and reduces stress levels which are the need of the hour. Ensure a balanced intake of all the nutrients and vitamins. These will only lead to a healthier body and hence a better frame of mind.

6. Take Breaks:

The stress of working from home might be adversely affecting your mental health especially with increased workloads and prolonged work hours. Make sure to take breaks to reduce the impact that it may have on both your physical as well as mental health. Categorising work and personal life aspects would help greatly in improving mental wellness and hence increase productivity in the workplace. ‍

7. Don’t Hesitate To Seek Help:

If the situation is getting out of hand and the stress can’t be controlled, it's best to seek help from a professional who would prescribe a course of action or talk it out with your peers. 

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Mental health is not to be taken lightly especially during a raging pandemic and is equally as important as maintaining physical wellbeing. Be well informed about the ongoing pandemic and refrain from being influenced by the negativity that’s being spread through various forms of media. Remember that we’re all in this together. Always be open to lending a helping hand and never hesitate to seek help in times of need.