COVID-19 has rocked the world and shaken the foundations of what many of us have known previously.
Here in the UK, after four lockdowns, it appears as though the end of lockdown is near. With the pandemic far from over, we are being told to learn how to live with the virus – which can be a scary thought.
But don’t get overwhelmed with worry. Dr Nick has put together a little list of helpful tips to help your mental health as the world returns to normality.
Check-In
As you go through your day, take the time to ask yourself how you are feeling.
Taken from mindfulness, the idea is to live in the moment by examining your feelings and acknowledging if you have any feelings of fear or anxiety etc.
This helps start the journey to bettering mental health. Ignoring feelings and thoughts only makes things worse in the long run.
Don’t just check in with yourself. Ask others how they are too.
This can be a friend, colleague, or family member. Anyone you speak to or have in your life.
The pandemic has been a tough time for everyone, and someone else may be going through similar feelings or worse.
This encourages talking and sharing emotions, which can be a lifesaver at times.
Take Time Away from Technology
Taking time away from the screen is always a good thing. It allows the eyes to rest and the mind to process the information you have been staring at for hours at a time.
Technology is an easy go for entertainment when we are bored, but try and put down that mobile or tablet and live in the moment.
You’d be surprised how much you miss when hiding behind an iPad, computer screen or games console.
If you have a child in your care, ensure they get time doing something that isn’t technology or screen-based.
Technology use has become so high that experts are worried about the withdrawal effects this will have on children and young people.
That’s right; you can become addicted to your phone, tablet or technology.
Create Boundaries
This is essential in managing your mental health post-pandemic.
If you find that you are very uncomfortable with something, don’t do it.
Forcing yourself into situations or events you’re unhappy with is bad for your mental health and can lead to more significant problems.
Wear a mask if you want to, even if others aren’t.
Don’t go to that gathering if you feel uneasy or anxious about it.
Put the boundaries in place so you know what you are willing to do to stay safe and happy.
This planning and preparation of managing expectations give you structure, which can help ease uncertainty or anxiety to some extent.
How do you plan or manage your mental health as lockdowns ease? If you find yourself struggling, you can contact Dr Nick, who will be more than willing to help guide you on your mental health journey.
If you want more helpful posts, then the Stronger Minds blog has a host of information on topics from wellbeing to therapy and more.
Want to know something specific – just ask!
