As we continue to navigate the global pandemic, it’s essential to prioritize our mental health. The ongoing situation has undoubtedly affected us all in different ways, and it’s no secret that it’s taken a toll on our collective wellbeing. In this article, we’ll explore the various challenges facing mental health during the pandemic and offer tips for coping mechanisms.
Increased Stress and Anxiety Levels
The pandemic has brought increased levels of stress and anxiety worldwide. With job insecurities, health concerns, and uncertain futures, many people are struggling to cope. The resulting stress and anxiety can lead to physical symptoms such as headaches, heart palpitations, and loss of appetite.
People are dealing with different stressors like financial pressures, academic demands, and isolation. The combination of these stressors can worsen existing mental health issues, leading to anxiety and depression. To reduce stress, it’s essential to maintain a daily routine, choose activities that bring calmness like meditation, and practice self-care.
Social Isolation and Loneliness
The current pandemic has led to an increased trend of social isolation and loneliness. Human beings are social creatures; thus, being removed from social interaction can damage mental health. Consistent feelings of loneliness can lead to depression, anxiety, and decreased life satisfaction.
To reduce isolation and loneliness, people can maintain communication with family and friends through video calls, join online discussion groups, and engage in virtual events. Adopting a new hobby or learning a new skill can also be useful in keeping the mind occupied.
Work-Related Stress
People who work during a pandemic are faced with various challenges leading to work-related stress. Issues such as job uncertainty, changes in work habits, and concerns over safety can exacerbate existing stress levels. People can counter these issues by setting boundaries, prioritizing working hours, and taking frequent breaks.
Employers can also take proactive measures, including providing hazard pay and offering additional resources such as mental health care.
Economic Uncertainty
The ongoing pandemic has brought about an economic crisis, which can affect people’s mental health. The consequences of job loss, financial insecurity can negatively impact individuals’ mental health, leading to depression and anxiety. Some coping mechanisms include following a budget, seeking financial advice, and engaging in activities that bring joy without breaking the bank.
Physical Inactivity and Mental Health
With social restrictions coupled with the pandemic, many people have become physically inactive, leading to mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, and irritability. Exercise can improve mental health by releasing endorphins, reducing muscle tension, and improving sleep quality.
People can stay active during the pandemic by creating a personalized home workout routine, taking a walk in nature while social distancing, or performing virtual fitness classes.
Seeking Mental Health Care
Seeking mental health care can be a challenge during a pandemic, but it’s essential to prioritize mental health. Teletherapy, online counseling and mental health apps are now available from licensed professionals that allow people to receive care without exposing themselves to the COVID-19 virus. It’s crucial to keep in touch with mental health care providers, continue therapy, and take scheduled medications.
Conclusion
The ongoing pandemic has taken a toll on our collective mental health, making it essential to prioritize self-care. Maintaining daily routines, reducing isolation, engaging in physical activity, seeking mental health care, and engaging in activities that bring joy are excellent coping mechanisms. Using available resources like teletherapy is a useful measure to get mental health care safely during a pandemic. Let’s continue to prioritize our mental health during this challenging time.
