If you’re feeling anxious, stressed or overwhelmed lately, you are not alone. Millions of people are going through the same emotional turmoil because of the second wave of COVID-19. The new and more aggressive variant of the coronavirus, which has a double mutation, has made India the second worst-hit country in the world. This being said, it is not the time to panic but to stay positive and take preventive measures like wearing masks and following the best hygiene practices. But before anything, the foremost requirement is to take care of your mental health and emotional wellbeing.
The mind can cope better when an unpleasant circumstance is temporary, just like the pandemic felt when it started. But the second wave of COVID-19 has proven that the pandemic isn’t going anywhere. The only way to deal with this deadly obstacle is to stay healthy, not just physically but mentally as well.
In the fight against the pandemic, being positive and hopeful is vital. Here are a few simple things you can do to stay positive while facing the pandemic.
Stay connected
It is important to stay connected with family, friends, co-workers and peers, especially if you’re living alone. For example, checking in regularly with friends and family via social media, video calls, instant messaging or traditional phone calls can help you combat loneliness and keep negative thoughts at bay. According to Itai Danovitch, Chairman of the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences at Cedars-Sinai, “In order to maintain good mental health over the long term, people should find ways to connect with loved ones, and importantly, find ways to be of service.”
Limit news consumption
The news we consume on a daily basis has a major impact on our thoughts, behaviour and emotions. Yes, gathering information during the pandemic is an excellent way to stay up-to-date and in control, but sitting in front of the television the whole day can adversely affect your mental health, causing stress and anxiety. Affirming its downside, Dr Aditi Nerurkar, a mind-body medicine physician at Harvard Medical School, says, “Think of it as an exercise. It’s good for you, right? But if you do it for hours on end, it becomes unhealthy.” So, set limits to how much news you consume on a daily basis, especially now.
Staying connected with family, friends, and peers through social media, video calls, or phone calls can combat feelings of loneliness and negativity, contributing to a more positive mindset.
While staying informed is important, excessive exposure to pandemic-related news can increase stress and anxiety. Setting limits on daily news consumption helps in avoiding information overload and promotes healthier mental well-being.
Mindfulness practices, such as meditation, mindful eating, or listening to music, allow individuals to focus on the present moment and be more aware of their feelings.
Engaging in regular exercise not only helps maintain physical fitness but also promotes mental well-being.
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