A pandemic can be a very tough time for people around the world. It is becoming abundantly clear that since the COVID-19 crisis began, families and friends start to miss each other and wonder when quarantine will end. Many people also have a hard time being alone or have trouble communicating with their friends or family. We all must check on each other from time to time and see how well we are doing. It is perfectly normal to get the "blues" during this rough time, but it may be difficult to get out of it. The goal is to help everyone stay mentally in check because we may need a push to get out of the rainclouds. 

To start, a way to stay mentally healthy is by communicating with friends and family. Communicating is a great way of letting other people know that they are thought of, so it is very delightful to see a notification of a text message pop up on the phone. Sending text messages, having a video chat, or going on Zoom with a friend group is a great way of checking up on close ones. A friend or family member may be struggling with staying mentally okay as well so help each other out. Every single person is in this together, so everyone can relate to what is happening in the world.

Next, giving yourself self-care and self-love is essential to staying mentally healthy. It is absolutely important to eat healthily, have good hygiene, workout, and to treat yourself once in a while. Treat yourself to some sweets, a relaxing bath, or an at-home facial. Anything to make yourself feel good.  Aside from everything mentioned above, getting enough sleep is often overlooked as a means of self-care.  Sleep allows your body to heal itself, so don't be afraid to go to bed early or catch a cat-nap during the day to give your body some rest.

Even more, limiting the amount of news also helps mental health. A pandemic is pretty scary and exposing yourself to everything can definitely cause a panic. With that, too much information can cause the mind to overthink. Limiting the news helps process the news slowly but also stay aware.

Lastly, sharing kindness and love to the people around you is a symbiotic way of staying mentally healthy. Helping out a neighbor or making goodie bags for healthcare workers can make a huge impact on your mental health and surrounding community. Kindness to others can make them and yourself feel good and might even encourage others to the same. 

All in all, we are all impacted differently. Staying mentally and physically healthy is important during this time. Even if we can fall into a dark place sometimes, we have the strength to get back up. Check up on each other and stay safe!

Information Citations:

“How to Stay Mentally Healthy Amidst the COVID-19 Pandemic.” Brain & Behavior Research Foundation, 19 Mar. 2020, www.bbrfoundation.org/blog/how-stay-mentally-healthy-amidst-covid-19-pandemic.

“Tips for Staying Mentally Healthy.” Tips for Staying Mentally Healthy – NYC Well, 2019, nycwell.cityofnewyork.us/en/coping-wellness-tips/tips-for-staying-mentally-healthy/.

Photo Citations:

“Royalty-Free Photo: Rain, Drops, Wet, Glass, Lights, Bokeh, View, behind, Water, Droplets, Running.” PickPik, www.pickpik.com/rain-drops-wet-glass-lights-bokeh-60539.

“Royalty-Free Photo: Selective Focus, Photography, Person, Brown, Sleeve, Tops, Yellow, Flowers, Background, Hands, Hand.” PickPik, www.pickpik.com/selective-focus-photography-person-brown-sleeve-tops-57772.