[vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_spacing=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][image_with_animation image_url=”7049″ image_size=”full” animation_type=”entrance” animation=”Fade In” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” image_loading=”default” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default”][vc_column_text]People had to quickly adjust their lives because of the COVID-19 pandemic. It brought about uncertain times to people from all walks of life, including businesses and their employees. With social distancing, job cuts, and businesses closing, the anxiety level of employees is definitely at an all-time high.
According to research, 41% of adults reported symptoms of anxiety and depressive disorder in the midst of the pandemic. This is reported to be much higher compared to the statistics a year before. During this time, most employees experience fear, stress, sadness, and loneliness because of many factors. And getting infected with the virus during work hours has been one of the most common concerns of workers.
Aside from the fear of getting infected with COVID-19, employees also worry about their job security. At the height of the pandemic, many companies have laid off employees or shut their businesses down. All these worries and anxieties can add to the stress which could eventually affect mental health.[/vc_column_text][image_with_animation image_url=”7047″ image_size=”full” animation_type=”entrance” animation=”Fade In” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” image_loading=”default” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default”][vc_column_text]For all these reasons, it is important to learn ways how to take care of yourself in order to cope. Here are 10 helpful ways to take care of your mental health and well-being.
1. Manage expectations
Setting the bar too high for yourself isn’t healthy at all. The pandemic has already put too much stress on you emotionally, so take it easy on yourself.
It will be helpful to be realistic with your goals since you haven’t experienced being in the same situation before. Working remotely may have increased your productivity, but it doesn’t mean you should raise the bar.
Meanwhile, if you are managing a team, try to avoid pressuring your employees. Some may still be adjusting, and others may be going through personal issues. Have empathy and give your members the time to get used to their new setup.
2. Take a break from the news
While listening to the news can keep you updated about the pandemic, it can eventually become a source of frustration than information. If you can’t take any more negative news, consider staying away from them by taking time off reports and social media. Be aware of the types of information you can take in and evaluate how helpful the news is to you.
If you insist on listening or reading the news, ensure that it comes from a reputable source and check the facts. Limit it to just one or two times a day and stick to it. However, also try to watch something more fun and entertaining, such as your favorite series or a movie to boost your positive mood.
3. Connect with other people
Social distancing measures have created feelings of loneliness and isolation among employees. While remote work may have badly affected your social life, it doesn’t mean you can’t connect with them.
Use the power of communication and collaboration tools like Skype, Facebook Messenger, or Zoom to establish lines of communication. You may be in social isolation due to the pandemic but it doesn’t mean you are alone. You can schedule face-to-face interactions with your team from time to time.
Are you feeling worried and scared about the pandemic? Well, who isn’t? It’s normal to feel that way with the current situation. So don’t be afraid to share your concerns with others.
If it’s impossible to speak to someone or talking to other people has not made you feel better about the situation, there are other ways you can find help. You can try calling a healthcare provider or a crisis helpline.
Moreover, if you are uncomfortable opening up to someone, you may try writing down what you feel in a journal. This way, you can also keep track of your daily moods, making it easier for you to recognize what triggers them.
5. Look after your body
Sometimes our body dictates our feelings. When people are stressed, they tend to resort to unhealthy patterns as a form of relief.
We all have heard stories of people going on a crash diet to relieve their stress. Such practice will only make you feel worse and take its toll on your body.
As much as possible, try to eat healthy, well-balanced meals, drink enough water, and exercise regularly. Avoid smoking, using drugs, or drinking too much alcohol. If you are working from home, you could exercise indoors or work out for 10 minutes or more.
6. Do what you love
Sometimes the fear of the unknown causes you to forget the things you love to do. You tend to focus on your worries instead of finding ways to enjoy.
It will be better to create a list and engage in as many activities as possible. However, make sure to still follow existing health and safety protocols. For instance, you may try walking in the park, learning a new hobby, or recreating online food recipes.
7. Meditate
Meditation is a good way to relax the body and mind. It only requires a quiet place, a comfortable position, and an open mind.
Some benefits of meditation are relieving stress, improving focus and concentration, and boosting self-esteem. In addition, it helps reduce negative emotions or attitudes and helps develop patience.
8. Be hopeful and stay positive
During a pandemic, you can easily lose hope because of all the negative things that are happening around you. But instead of worrying, try to focus on the positive things in your life.
The World Health Organization recommends reading positive stories and images of people who have recovered from the virus.
Have the mindset that this is just a difficult time and that all this will pass. You may be feeling helpless right now but it will not be this way forever. Think of the good things in your life and be thankful for them.
9. Know your red flags
One of the ways you can manage your mental health during a pandemic is to identify your stressors. There are many factors that can contribute to your stress and identifying them will help alleviate your feeling of being overwhelmed.
Negative thoughts like frustrations, worries, sadness and physical sensations such as tension, upset stomach, and jitters can amplify your anxiety. And eventually, worries and anxieties can affect mental health. Learn how to control these red flags to reduce stress and regain control.
10. Ask for professional support
If you are having a hard time coping up with stress, you may seek professional help from a health counselor or doctor.
There will always be a qualified health counselor who can assist you. If their clinic is closed during the pandemic, many offer virtual appointments.
You can get recommendations from family or friends or you can easily search online. Keep in mind that everyone does not respond to stress the same way so better to have a list of things you want to talk about before your appointment.
Conclusion
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about stressful times for everyone. It is understandable to feel helpless, scared, and anxious because of the current situation.
Worrying about the uncertainties of the crisis will test your mental capability. That’s why it is important to look after yourself and your well-being. Try to find ways on how you can take good care of your physical and mental health.
Once the pandemic is over, your current strong feeling may fade. However, stress won’t completely disappear from your life. Continue doing self-care and boost your ability to cope up with life’s changes.
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The stress and exhaustion that has been brought to us by the COVID-19 pandemic have greatly affected our mental health. Taking good care of yourself may be a challenge but it is important to value your well-being and health.
Support Services Group values its employees and their mental health. We encourage our employees to share their feelings and connect with people. We promote a healthy and positive work environment for the welfare of our employees.
Visit our Careers Page and be a part of our SSG family![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]