Here we are at some point of the pandemic, not knowing if it’s the middle, the end, or the new norm. It’s no wonder stress levels continue to be on the rise with the uncertainty of it all.
Just to throw in some stats:
According to the American Psychological Association, 76% of Americans are reporting, the coronavirus pandemic is a significant source of stress, 35% reporting that their level of stress continues to increase.
From August 2020 to February 2021, the percentage of adults with recent symptoms of anxiety or a depressive disorder increased from 36.4% to 41.5%. That’s a lot!
With unemployment, social distancing, working, attending school remotely, isolation, and uncertainty, it’s more important than ever that we are mindful about our mental health and strive to care for ourselves. Just as important, we should promote mental health awareness. How? Well, let’s make it easy shall we?
Accept that it’s normal to feel more anxious and stressed than ever during all of this! Allow yourself to validate these feelings and know that you’re not alone! Be Kind to yourself!
- Practice relaxation every day! The uncertainty makes us feel like we have no control. In turn, it increases our anxiety levels. Relaxation techniques such as breathing exercises, mindfulness, meditation, and yoga can help us feel more in control of our well-being, ourselves. Additionally, gain perspective and reduce stress.
- Schedule Self Care. Make time to exercise, relax, eat well, sleep well, stay in touch with loved ones, make time for fun activities, take on new hobbies, drink plenty of water, get some sunshine and get a healthy outlet like mental health therapy! Make appointments with yourself and keep them!! Please don’t neglect yourself.
- Make Time to Exercise. Find ways to stay active, even if it’s just 10-20 minutes a day. Movement helps to boost serotonin levels. In turn, it increases energy levels, improves mood, relieves stress, and reduces anxiety. It makes you feel good about yourself, as well accomplished, keeping you motivated.
- Simplify your Life. Make a list of ongoing to-do lists and projects and arrange them in order of priority. Break the tasks down into smaller steps and focus on one thing at a time. This will make them less overwhelming and more achievable. Don’t spread yourself too thin. Learn to say no!
- Stick to a Routine. Setting and sticking to daily routines can help us keep a sense of control and normalcy. Try to start and end your work and school tasks at the same time. Schedule meals, sleep, and physical activity as best you can. Rituals help us feel in control as well as structured and stable giving us comfort.
- Last but not least: Make The Best of Every Moment! Be Present in the here and now.
Love your friends and family, even if it’s from a distance. Most importantly, Love yourself!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK
“It’s not selfish to love yourself, take care of yourself, and to make your happiness a priority. It’s necessary.”
– Mandy Hale
