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There is a lot of talk about the impact of the pandemic on the economy, environment and the corporate world. However, a key aspect that isn't addressed as much is the mental impact of this crisis.
While economic recession may be a more common term, the impact of social recession is also extremely relevant. In short, social recession refers to a decline in the social and mental well being of a community.
Therefore, here are a few tips on how you can make the most of the time at hand and channel your energies into something productive.
1. Connect with nature
Getting outside is a critical part of mental health, but not everyone has the ability to do so right now, particularly if you’re part of a high-risk group. So if the great outdoors isn’t accessible to you at this time, you can still try to bring some of the outdoors inside.
Some options include:
- Open all of your windows.
- Invest in some houseplants.
- Get some ambient noise going.
2. Take some time out for yourself in a day.
Many of us would be living with our families or partners during the lockdown and being with people all the time can lead to some level of discomfort.
That’s why taking some “me” time out is important. This time will only be spent with yourself. You I can choose to do whatever you want in this period. It could be listening to music, cooking or reading a book.
3. Recreate your routine inside the house.
It is obvious that our original routines have gone for a toss and there is a disruption in our normalcy. Now one way to restore it can be trying to bring back as much of your old routine as possible.
If you would go to the office earlier, try waking up at the same time, get dressed for work and create an area where you strictly do office work.
4. Maintain a sleep hygiene.
A lot of people have been experiencing sleep deprivation during the lockdown. This can occur due to the stress and uncertainty surrounding us. In order to get a better sleep, you can maintain something known as sleep hygiene.
This includes steps that can help you get better sleep. Number one, only go to your bed when you have to lie down there and sleep. It will automatically give the mind a cue to rest when you lie down on the bed. Avoiding eating or working there. Secondly, half an hour before you go to sleep, keep your electronic appliances aside to avoid disturbance.
5. Excercise if you can :
Exercise has many benefits, not only for your physical health but also your mental health. In your brain, exercise stimulates chemicals that improve your mood and the parts of the brain responsible for memory and learning.
Physical activity and exercise has many benefits.
It can:
- help you to feel better, even if you’re feeling okay
- reduce the risk of illnesses like heart and lung disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, cancer, dementia, Alzheimer’s diseaseand Parkinson's disease
- help people recover from a stroke and many other illnesses and conditions
- help you to lose weight if you want to, which is good for your health overall and might be good for your self-esteem
These small measures in your daily life can bring in some relief. Try staying positive and avoiding watching news for more than 15-20 minutes everyday. Stay socially connected with family and friends as much as possible. We all will get through this together!