Covid-19 has been difficult in many ways. Between its impact on the economy and the need for self isolation, it can also lead to a myriad of different mental health issues.
In this article, we’d like to discuss some steps you can take to maintain your mental health in the midst of this outbreak.
Stay in Contact With People
People are social creatures, which can make self-isolation difficult. By breaking many of our daily rituals, it has also disconnected us from the habits that lead us to interact with others.
While self-isolation makes it more difficult to stay in touch with people, the internet is a powerful tool to mitigate this problem.
Even something as simple as a phone call to a friend or family member can be great for helping you feel less alone. Keep in mind that you’re not just protecting your mental health: you’re protecting theirs by checking in on them.
Disconnecting From The News
While the internet is great for staying in touch with others, both it and cable news can also give us access to a wealth of information we don’t need.
It’s important to understand the basic precautions you can take to protect yourself and others from the coronavirus: maintaining at least six feet of distance from others, regularly washing your hands for at least 20 seconds, not touching your face, and so on.
At the same time, you do not need minute-by-minute updates describing the current spread of the coronavirus. In this situation, it’s best to focus on what you can control: your own response to the outbreak.
Don’t Put Pressure On Yourself
You may feel that staying at home all day obligates you to achieve some goal you’ve been thinking about. Reading a classic work of literature or trying to pick up a new skill can be a great way to pass the time and feel good, but you shouldn’t let it stress you out.
Being forced to stay at home is making many people feel anxious and depressed. If you don’t feel ready to conquer a big task right now, that’s completely understandable. You may instead choose to focus on smaller daily things that make you feel better: showering, cleaning up the house, and so on.
Struggling with Relapse
Recovering from addiction is a lifelong process. This makes stressful times particularly difficult for those struggling with addiction.
There are a few basic steps you can take to help during this time: making sure the substance(s) in question aren’t present in your household, as well as speaking with loved ones who can help hold you accountable.
If you have relapsed, please get help. Arena Medical Group provides suboxone therapy for those struggling with opioid addiction, but regardless of the abused substance, it’s important to speak with a counselor or medical professional.
They’re not there to judge you. They’re here to help you get better.
In these difficult times, we here at Arena Medical Group hope you stay safe.