Mental Health During Coronavirus Pandemic

Mar 31

COVID-19 has altered our lives forever, from sleepless nights to changes in our routine and lifestyle. You must reduce stress and maintain your mental stability.

Here are some tips to protect your mental health to avoid stress and anxiety:

1. Exercise

Focus on exercises such as yoga, pilates, cardio, and weights workouts. It is more beneficial when you create a system in which you regularly exercise. Physical activity release endorphins, a chemical that enhances our mood and serves as a natural painkiller. It also improves us with confidence and a positive self-image. It decreases weight and boosts our metabolism. It also reduces anxiety and stress by promoting sleep quality.

2. Create an Atmosphere in Which You Can Thrive in Adversity.

I recently started listening to audiobooks to keep my mind in a positive stage. I recommended Girl, Stop Apologizing by Rachel Hollis. The Total Money Makeover by Dave Ramsey and The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey.

Watch movies and engage in conversations with friends and family via Facetime, Zoom or Skype. It is important to also boost your serotonin and dopamine by eating a healthy and balanced diet. These neurotransmitters are chemicals that carry electrical signals influencing your mood, appetite, memory, sleep and more. Cortisol helps you regulate your metabolism and immune response.

If your serotonin levels are low it can lead to physical and emotional pain. Low levels of dopamine contribute to mental defocus, addictive behaviors and ADHD. Low cortisol levels can cause weakness, fatigue, and low blood pressure.

3. Stay connected and ask for help if you need extra support.

If you feel like you may require more than just talking to a friend. You feel depressed or have emotional distress. Don't forget to stay in the present and seek professional mental health assistance. Contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-8255 or join the Online Chat. SAMHSA Treatment Referral Helpline 1-877-726-47227 to receive general information on mental health and locate treatment services in your area.