Even after months of COVID-19 breakout, no proven vaccine, preventive measure, treatment or any other solution has been found for this global pandemic yet. Though the lockdown restrictions are easing, most people are still stuck indoors with a mundane daily routine. Situations like temporary unemployment, economic slowdown, salary cuts, working from home, home-schooling of children, inability to meet family and friends in person, fear of contracting the disease on stepping out, and concern for the health of vulnerable loved ones are taking a toll on the mental health of a huge percentage of the population.

If you or someone you care about are also facing stress, anxiety, emotional burden, or any other mental health concern due to this global humanitarian crisis, read on to find certain practices that may help cope up with the same. Note that in case these tips don’t help much or the person is showing signs of some serious mental health concern, immediate medical attention must be sought.

1. Stay aware and informed but do not overdo

Keeping oneself informed is important as new updates are coming up every day related to this previously unknown condition. Thus, follow trusted news channels and stay updated with the guidelines issued by local and national authorities. However, stick to checking news only once or twice daily and avoid overdoing it as it may make you feel distressed or anxious.

2. Follow a healthy daily routine

In the absence of deadlines, commitments and significant plans, people tend to laze around and procrastinate daily activities which can further lead to feelings of sadness, reduced energy levels or mild depression. Thus, stay active and follow a healthy routine regularly. Set a particular bedtime, eat healthy meals at regular intervals, maintain personal hygiene, follow a moderate fitness routine, allocate time to clean your house, maintain balance in work and rest, and make time for your hobbies and leisure activities.

3. Stay in touch with your loved ones

Social interaction and heart to heart conversations are one of the most important practices to maintain good mental health. While it is hard to meet your distant friends and relatives in the current times, catch up over video calls or online channels frequently.

4. Avoid smoking, drinking and drug use

Limit smoking and alcohol consumption, especially if you are stuck alone, all by yourself. Do not use such substances as a method to deal with anxiety, social isolation, stress or the feelings of uncertainty. Also, note that alcohol consumption has not been proven to work against the virus. Quit drug use as it can severely affect your mental wellbeing.

5. Maintain a healthy screen time

Avoid binge-watching, playing video games for long periods, and spending hours on social media. Though such activities can help you relax and may give a sense of pleasure, over-indulging can lead to negative effects. Thus, use them in moderation and take regular breaks from on-screen activities. Also, a lot of misinformation related to COVID-19 is being spread over social media; so stay aware and do not trust every piece of information you come across before double-checking its source.

The Bottom Line

Mental health and wellbeing are as important as any other aspect of our physical fitness. These unprecedented times of COVID-19 are definitely hard to cope with, however, not impossible to get through. Practice healthy habits, remember that you have come a long way and can go further! In case you or your loved ones are unable to manage, seek online medical consultation at the earliest. Contact HJ Hospitals -- a multispeciality emergency medical center, for all your health and wellbeing-related concerns.