Keeping It Together A Healthy Mind During Uncertainty: Quite undeniably, the pandemic we all know about is affecting pretty much everyone, in many ways, regardless of geography.
While staying away from any suspicion of a source of contagion is utterly recommended – and almost mandatory – nowadays in order to stay healthy, there is another aspect that should not be overlooked, since it is an equally important component of one’s wholesome well-being, because it’ll still be there when this is over and we’ll need it in good shape to carry on: the mind.
Managing our mental and emotional health during this time can be tricky. What can we do to remain at a reasonably calm and healthy level? There are several things we can observe.
- Reduce the amount of time spent watching, reading or listening to every single piece of news that may cause anxiety or distress. Don’t “peek” for information updates every 5 minutes. Instead, do it only at certain times during the day, because the near-constant stream of news reports can get to you, emotionally. Seek information only from trusted sources so that we can take practical steps to prepare and protect ourselves and loved ones. Learn to distinguish facts from rumors by checking mostly reliable sources, like the World Health Organization’s website.
- Being supportive to others in any possible manner can bring about benefits for everyone. For example, calling neighbors on the phone, or people in the community who may need some assistance or even just someone to talk to. Use any opportunity to highlight and spread positive, hope-inspiring stories. For example, those of people who have recovered and are willing to share their experience.
- Workwise, feeling under pressure and stressed might be a likely experience. Keep in mind that it is quite normal to feel this way given the circumstances, but it doesn’t imply weakness in any manner. We’re all human, so we should try to be empathic towards others.
- Take care of yourself. Ensure sufficient rest and respite during work, eat sufficient and healthy food, engage in some activity but remain physically distant from crowds or groups of people, and stay in contact with family and friends.
- Stay connected and maintain your social networks. Try as much as possible to keep your daily activities but create new routines as needed. Although limiting one’s physical social contact is a must, you can stay connected via telephone, e-mail, social media or video conferencing. Keep things in perspective and be assure of one thing: experts everywhere are working on the outbreak.
All things considered, keep in mind that this is not a sprint, but a whole new marathon. The goal line is still there, awaiting you. Just keep calm and stay safe.
