The pandemic has changed our lives and brought many challenges. The way we learn, work and live everyday is so different now because of the restrictions and rules set in place and, understandably, the need for emotional and mental health support has increased.
World Mental Health Day is on the 10th October every year and the purpose is to raise awareness about mental health around the world. I am two days late but in this post, I want to share some thoughts on mental health and how to take care of yourself and each other.
Finding ways to be productive in lock down can be difficult. It definitely must have been challenging when it all started back in March. You have probably been told that now is the time to learn and start something new like do a course online and re-train yourself, learn a new language or start a business and that is true but if you haven't done anything like that, don't feel bad. We are all working and doing school online, keeping up with chores around the house, taking care of children and elderly relatives, running errands and busy with a lot of things. Separating work and home life can be difficult because our offices and classrooms are at home and there are interruptions and we need to slow down, breathe and rest. It is okay to take time off, just make sure you have permission from your bosses and teachers. If work and other things are stressing you out, ask for the day off and take time for yourself.
It is completely okay to say no. Now that restrictions have eased in a lot of places, people are enjoying being out of the house. If someone invites you out to a club, a party, lunch and you don't feel up to it, just say no. It's not just going out though. A family member might ask you to come cook or do something with them and you may want to do something different and that is fine. The family member, friend or whoever will understand. You don't have to say yes and please everyone.
Celebrate small achievements. Everyone celebrates big, physical achievements such as a promotion at work, an award, sporting achievement, getting great opportunities, which are all amazing but we should celebrate or at least give some credit for people's small achievements and accomplishments and the mental health achievements! If you received good feedback on a task at school or work, if you received nice comments, if you survived a stressful week of work, if you fought depression and anxiety, if you pushed through an illness and got things done, if you felt like sleeping all day but got out of bed and started your day, give yourself a reward and celebrate! 🙌
Communication is very important. Even though we can't see our loved ones in person, we can still talk to family and friends by phone calls, texts, Face time and zoom. Anxiety and stress are normal but it's not healthy to hold your feelings in. Nobody likes to see someone they love scream, throw tantrums or cry but things happen to cause those outbursts or reactions and it's natural. No matter how you are feeling, talk to someone you trust and love. Talk to someone about whatever is troubling or upsetting you so they can listen and give you advice and help you out. Also, make time to check in on your family and friends. You never really know what they're going through in their life and they might need help, even if they don't reach out to ask. Besides problems, we still need to be social and chat so pick up the phone or organise video calls. 📱💻👪
If you don't like to talk it out, write it out! I have written about journals a lot on this blog and it is really helpful.
Acknowledge the fact that there will be both good and bad days, it's okay to not be okay and your feelings are valid. Remember that you are not alone.Tell your family and friends you love them and know that you are loved. 💓
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