Tips and Tricks

How to Manage Your Mental Health During COVID-19

We are living in unprecedented times. The coronavirus outbreak has flipped our world upside down and imposed restrictions that have forever changed the way we work, learn, and connect with one another. Despite the challenges this crisis has thrown at us and the emotions it has evoked, there is light at the end of the tunnel and we will get through this together. In the midst of managing the constantly changing COVID-19 crisis, it is more important now than ever to protect your psychological and emotional wellbeing during this global pandemic. Below is a list of seven simple steps to help take care of your mental health to protect you and your loved ones.

1. Manage Screen Time: Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories, including those on social media.

2. Fuel Your Body: Eat healthy, exercise regularly, and get plenty of sleep. Aim to spend 30 to 60 minutes outdoors daily.

3. Roll with The Punches: Create a new, adapted schedule taking cancellations into account and make adjustments as needed.

4. Talk it Out: Connect with family and friends via phone, video calls, or other virtual connection to discuss worries and concerns.

5. Pick Up a Hobby: Try something new, whether that is a new way to study or work or something you’ve always wanted to learn how to do, now is the time to do it! Plus, this will help take your mind off things.

6. Seek Support: Know that you are not alone and during this time it is easy to feel anxious and overwhelmed. Reach out to someone you trust—a family member or friend, counselor or therapist, teacher or primary care provider—and confide in them what you are going through and how you are feeling.

7. Remain Optimistic: Know that things will get better and we will get through this. Spend time meditating, journaling, or thinking positive thoughts and uplifting affirmations.