Wholeness Healing Center

Mental Wellness Tips During This Time

During this difficult time when there is much uncertainty, stress, and fear about COVID-19 and the effects on our workplaces, families, and general sense of control, there are some things that you can do to maintain your mental wellness:

1. Try to maintain a sense of structure. If you are working or studying from home, maintain your sleep schedule. Get out of your pajamas, dress for work or school, and make a daily schedule.
2. Think of this time as a “gift” of increased, focused family time. Plan activities to do as a family. Sit down for meals at the family table. Play games, go for walks, pray, garden, craft, connect with family through social media platforms.**Increased family time in some households may cause increased stress with potential for safety issues. If this is the case in your household, you can access the free Nebraska Family Helpline at (888) 866-8660 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for contact with a trained operator who can provide information, support, and referrals to prevent safety issues. Another resource is the SAFE Center at (308) 237-2599 or their 24-hour free crisis line at 877-237-2513.
3. Try to keep your focus on the present instead of worrying about the unknown future. When we are mindful or “present on purpose,” we lessen our sense of anxiety and experience things as they are happening. Mindfulness apps such as Calm and Insight Timer can help you practice this skill and feel more focused.
4. If watching the news or getting instant updates on social media causes worries and anxiety, limit the amount of time you spend updating yourself on the current health crisis. Follow the recommended guidelines to use social distancing and handwashing, and you are doing your part to beat this!
5. Staying at home doesn’t mean you have to be completely disconnected from the world. Set up a Zoom meeting with family or friends, send a text or call someone you haven’t seen in a while, write a letter or send a card to surprise someone who may be struggling, or sit in your front yard and wave at a neighbor walking by.
6. If you feel you are unable to manage the struggles of this difficult time, consider seeking professional help. Many counselors and therapists are using Telehealth methods to connect with their clients.

Take care!

 

Tags: keeping structure when quarantining, Mental Health Tips during COVID, stay connected during quarantining