No one can deny the fact that past years have been incredibly difficult for everyone. The stress and worry caused by the pandemic have amplified people from all walks of life. Some of you reading this might also be suffering from your mental wellbeing. It is understandable to feel scared and anxious, but whatever the situation you’re going through, you have the power to look after your mental health and wellbeing.

The seven steps below are general suggestions to help you cope not only with the COVID-19 pandemic, but any event that may cause stress.

One

Talk to someone you trust

Talking to someone you trust, whether that’s a friend, a family member, or a colleague, can help a lot in improving your mental wellbeing. Although it’s not always easy, talking about your feelings enables you to deal with the burdens inside your head.

In addition, you may feel supported and connected once you’re able to openly share what you’re going through with someone who cares about you. If you’re living far away, you can still stay connected with your loved ones through phone calls, video calls, and messages on your smartphone.

Two

Look after your physical health

Physical health and mental health are closely linked to each other, because taking care of one often helps maintain the other. Regular exercise can keep the brain as well as your other organs healthy and can significantly improve your mental health. However, it does not mean you need to do a sport or do a 1-hour extensive gym session. Walking in the park, gardening, doing yoga, or dancing can be helpful examples of activities you can do to keep your body active. Experts say that most people should be active for 30 minutes daily.

Moreover, eating a balanced and healthy diet also helps improve your mental wellbeing. Make sure to eat nutritious foods and incorporate various sources of nutrition into your meals. Having a healthy and balanced diet is also presented in your attitude toward foods. While enjoying your meals and trying out new foods, make sure not to obsess over what you’re eating. This would help a lot in controlling your mental relationship to food.

Three

Do activities you enjoy

Try to continue doing the activities that bring you joy and excitement. Think back to the things you love doing, is it playing with your pet, trying a new recipe, reading a book, or watching a TV series on your tablet? Once you have an answer, it’s a good idea to have a routine and do that activity daily. This helps you to feel happier and improve your mental health.

Four

Stay away from harmful substances

You may think that relying on drugs and alcohol can help you cope with your feelings, but that is wrong. In fact, they can result in serious problems in the long run. Excessive use of drugs and alcohol would not only affect your feelings negatively, but also can put you and those around you at risk of diseases and severe injuries.

Five

Seek help when you need it

Seeking help is not a sign of weakness, it’s a strength. So, if you feel like you cannot cope with the stress you’re facing, it’s time to seek professional help. Call your local mental health helpline or get in touch with your counsellor or doctor, and they will provide you with the assistance you need. 

It’s important to remember that professional treatments are effective; people who get appropriate help can recover from mental illness. You are not alone, and some things can help support your emotional wellbeing.

Six

Quiet your mind

Help free yourself of constant swirling thoughts by trying meditation and mindfulness practices. These mental activities act as relaxation exercises that can help improve your state of mind and life. Studies have shown that mindfulness and meditation practices can help people maintain positive mental health and wellbeing by reducing stress and enhancing wellbeing. Many experts recommended meditation as a possible treatment for anxiety, addiction, aggression, and depression. Light up your favorite candle, do some stretches, and get to meditation!

Seven

Be kind to yourself

When you’re feeling down, it is easy for you to blame it on yourself. I know we’re all busy, and it can be hard to take some time out for yourself. However, make sure you set aside some time for a nice meal, a warm bath, or anything else that sparks your own enjoyment. Taking time for self-care would help you reduce stress and lift your mood overall.

Conclusion

Mental health can be a sensitive topic. However, the more we make it a subject that’s part of our everyday conversation, the easier it is for people to seek help. I hope these seven steps can help you maintain your mental health and know how to help people with mental illnesses.

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