Our Mental Health
During these stressful times of restrictions and the unknown, we all feel uncontrollable emotions that may change by minute, hour, or by day. It’s important to remember, its not just you! We are all facing new hurdles, and struggling to deal with them. However difficult the times may seem; we will all be okay. You will be okay; your family will be okay.
Here are some tips for you!
Get enough sleep: Sleep is often one of the first self-care actions to go when one is under stress, but it is essential in order to keep the mind sharp and one’s emotions level.
Exercise: Exercise has an immediate positive impact on one’s mood and can help reduce feelings of stress and anxiety. Taking 15 minutes to go for a walk, to stretch and to move one’s body is a very quick way to achieve the benefits of self-care.
Eat well: During times of stress and anxiety it is easy to fall into negative food habits but in order to protect ourselves and reap the benefits of the food-mood connection it is important to eat regularly and with balanced meals. This protects us both emotionally and physically
- Try a wellness app (meditation, mindfulness).
- Be in the NOW. (when our minds wander and fear sets in, return to the present).
- Practice positive self-talk. “This is temporary.” Acknowledge that while we are in limbo, it will not go on forever. “You will adjust, you will heal, and we will recover.”
- Embrace positive distractions: binge a TV show, listen to music, flip through a magazine.
- Don’t become a media junkie. It fuels the anxiety with no benefit. Turn it off!
- Connect with others through technology. Call, text, use FaceTime!
- Take breaks throughout the day.
Try 5,5,5
- Take a seat
- Inhale very slowly through your nose for 5 seconds: 1-2-3-4-5.
- Exhale very slowly through your nose or mouth for 5 seconds: 1-2-3-4-5.
- Wait for 5 seconds: 1-2-3-4-5.
- Repeat the process three more times (1-minute total).
- Notice how you feel. (You should feel calmer.)
During these challenging times I urge you to stay positive, and spread that positivity to your family and neighbors, however you can. Be kind to yourself!
*If you or someone you know needs more information or help, please visit: https://www.nami.org/Support-Education/NAMI-HelpLine/COVID-19-Information-and-Resources/COVID-19-Resource-and-Information-Guide