If there’s one thing most people will agree on concerning the pandemic, it’s that it has been a time of great uncertainty and stress.
The fear of you or your loved ones falling ill at any time, coupled with social-distancing measures, have left many feeling helpless and anxious to get back to the way of life before this all came about.
Even as restrictions are loosened in Malaysia, many are feeling the aftereffects of the extended lockdowns and their impact on businesses and livelihoods.
The best thing to do is prioritise your mental health. Here are some tips on how to stay emotionally healthy during these troubled times.
1. Take the right precautions
One of the most practical steps to maintain good physical and mental health is by practising the established Covid safety measures. Wash your hands, wear a mask, follow social-distancing rules, and get vaccinated.
The more you follow safety recommendations, the less likely you are to fall ill. The more reassurance you can give yourself that everything is going to be OK, the less likely you are to get stressed and panic.
2. Stay in touch with your family and friends
Even if the pandemic means you are not able to see everyone in person as much as you would like, it’s still important to keep in touch by using other methods.
Don’t forget that the more vulnerable, such as the elderly or those who haven’t yet been vaccinated, might not be open to in-person visits even as restrictions are loosened.
Give them a call, or set up a time to video chat. Send gifts or surprise food deliveries to let them know you’re thinking of them.
Prioritise maintaining contact, as it will make you feel more connected instead of isolated.
3. Take media breaks
Even though it’s important to stay informed, you can sometimes experience information overload. Give yourself mental breaks. It’s OK to forget about the weight of the world every now and then.
Enjoy time with your family and friends, or relax with a good book. Allow yourself room to breathe outside the constant chatter of the pandemic.
4. Reward yourself
Do something that shows you care about yourself. Sleep a little more, eat a good meal, or buy yourself something special.
Self-love is essential, so reward yourself for surviving such a difficult time as a global pandemic.
5. Be expressive
Some of the most beautiful works of art came about out of difficult moments. Try channelling your uncertainty and anxiety into a creative project, whether it’s singing, dancing, or doodling on paper.
Allow your feelings to express themselves through some sort of medium; otherwise, all that energy will remain pent up inside.
Dennis Relojo-Howell is the founder of Psychreg. Connect with him on Twitter @dennisr_howell.