Your mental health is just as important as your physical health, and you should take steps to ensure your mental wellbeing. This is true at any time, but it is especially true during the global pandemic. With more people working from home, social distancing requirements, and travel restrictions, there are additional hurdles that may affect your mental well-being. It can be overwhelming and can take a toll on your mental health. Below are some tips for maintaining your mental well-being while coping with the COVID-19 pandemic.
· Stay active. Step away from the TV or device and get outside. Exercising or even going for a walk is a great way to keep your body healthy and relieve stress.
· Get enough sleep.
· Stay hydrated and eat healthy foods when possible.
· Set a limit on your media intake. This includes national news and social media. Resist the urge to look at every notification on your phone.
· Plan to connect daily with loved ones and others who may be experiencing difficulties or stress during the pandemic. When you socialize, pick conversation topics unrelated to the pandemic.
· Try breathing exercises and meditation. These are two great stress relievers that are popular and free.
· Listen to music. Soothing music can be a great stress reliever.
· Keep your mind active. Activities like brain teasers and puzzles can help to keep your mind active.
· Stay on top of difficult feelings and anxiety. It is normal to worry about things like the COVID-19 pandemic but try not to let your mind be overrun with worries about things you cannot control. Instead, focus on those areas of your life you can control like how you behave, what activities you engage in, and how you interact with others.
If you are unable to control your anxiety or stress levels on your own, consider talking to a professional who can help you cope with difficult situations.
If you are not sure where to start, try visiting the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) website at http://www.foh4you.com/. There are many great resources such as free counseling sessions, self-assessments, and online learning. All counseling sessions are confidential. You can also contact the EAP at 1-800-222-0364.
Stay safe, stay healthy, and have a great summer!
· Stay active. Step away from the TV or device and get outside. Exercising or even going for a walk is a great way to keep your body healthy and relieve stress.
· Get enough sleep.
· Stay hydrated and eat healthy foods when possible.
· Set a limit on your media intake. This includes national news and social media. Resist the urge to look at every notification on your phone.
· Plan to connect daily with loved ones and others who may be experiencing difficulties or stress during the pandemic. When you socialize, pick conversation topics unrelated to the pandemic.
· Try breathing exercises and meditation. These are two great stress relievers that are popular and free.
· Listen to music. Soothing music can be a great stress reliever.
· Keep your mind active. Activities like brain teasers and puzzles can help to keep your mind active.
· Stay on top of difficult feelings and anxiety. It is normal to worry about things like the COVID-19 pandemic but try not to let your mind be overrun with worries about things you cannot control. Instead, focus on those areas of your life you can control like how you behave, what activities you engage in, and how you interact with others.
If you are unable to control your anxiety or stress levels on your own, consider talking to a professional who can help you cope with difficult situations.
If you are not sure where to start, try visiting the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) website at http://www.foh4you.com/. There are many great resources such as free counseling sessions, self-assessments, and online learning. All counseling sessions are confidential. You can also contact the EAP at 1-800-222-0364.
Stay safe, stay healthy, and have a great summer!