No social gatherings, schools, offices and market places have been so quiet ever before. Since the pandemic hit our routines, our life has been completely a roller coaster ride without any pause. Even after almost one year of onset of the deadly coronavirus, the world is still not certain about the vaccination. In such a scenario, stress and anxiety are inevitable.
Different studies and surveys bring out highly alarming figures for the mental health experts across India. People who were earlier having mild anxiety have reached the scale of moderate and severe. Astoundingly, millions of people give weightage to physical health over mental wellness. However, these both are equally important on any given day. Pondering how you can ward off concerns regarding family’s health, joblessness, financial crisis and more? We have got you saved while streamlining some of the best ways to secure your mental health in these high-tension times.
BATTLING PROLONGED ANXIETY
The dread of contacting Covid-19 is widespread. It may sound bewildering to choose a healthy mental status over an anxious mind. But it is much easier and convenient to implement than to talk about. Try all of these at home:
1. Switch off your television set (for some time): Believe it or not, nothing is going to change if you stay un-tuned to the news update for an evening or a couple of days. Your mind deserves some break from all the pandemic related news.
2. Recognise your inner voice: How long it has been since you heard yourself? Your soul is willing to talk to you. Get connected through short meditation sessions and some breathing exercises. It will not only help you regain your sanity but it is good for your lungs too which are ought to be the primary target of Covid-19.
3. Re-establish the nature connect: Some people enjoy looking at chirping birds while others feel lively when they look at flowing water. Mother Nature is always caring towards humans. You were likely out of touch but it is the best time to get reconnected in a way you like it most. Start watering plants, sing to them or look at the greenery around.
4. Play around with kids: Coping with stress cannot get better than having kids around. Involve yourself with kids as much as you can. They can be your constant source of energy and positivity. Children hardly know to give up and often remind you of moral stories you read in your childhood. Don’t have kids in the family or you are single? Bring home a furry family member. They are equally cute.
5. Laugh it out: Do you remember when did you last smile? Times are already tough, stop punishing yourself by not smiling or enjoying life. Share silly jokes or laugh inorganically, it will be still better than not laughing at all.
6. Help others: Do not forget that you are not alone in this mess. Many people are suffering; reach out to those in need.
MAINTAINING MENTAL HEALTH
Insecurity and lack of confidence are so common these days with tons of people losing their jobs or facing heavy losses in business. Forced to live life like caged animals, people are losing their cool, giving up and suffering from depression.
Mental health experts are highly concerned that the situation may worsen in the coming months. Due to changes in day-to-day life routine, dropped monthly incomes, managing household chores with job and kids are taking a toll over many lives. Getting accustomed to the new normal is the only way out. Therefore, it is vital to get hold of your mental health and physical fitness along with taking necessary precautions against coronavirus for both your family as well as society. It is understood that stress is in the air but so is life.
Takeaway: You should commit to lead a normal life amidst stress and anxiety prevailing around for improved immunity and overall better health status. Overthinking or taking unnecessary stress can be overbearing for many. Stop before it is too late.
The writer is a mental health expert and founder & CEO of Srauta Wellness.