Covid-19’s Growing Impact on Mental Health
Coronavirus pandemic means most of us are staying at home and working from home. Gyms are closed, and there are no social gatherings. Many people are feeling lonely, which impacts their mental health adversely.
While staying at home, people are worried about their health, the health and well-being of their loved ones, the job, the future of families, etc. We are more reliant on electronic devices and less connected to each other.
The World Health Organization (WHO) announced the coronavirus pandemic in mid-March, and shortly after that, alcohol sales skyrocketed in the US. Though Rapid Test kits for coronavirus are available, people are still worried about getting themselves tested if they develop the symptoms.
How COVID-19 Impact Mental Health?
Covid-19 impacts mental health in more than one way. Following are the ways in which the coronavirus pandemic is impacting people:
Disrupted Routines
Since we all are staying at home, our routines are disrupted. There are no social gatherings, no birthday parties. There is less structure, a changing schedule, there is uncertainty, which can take a toll on mental health.
Stress
People have lost jobs in the pandemic, which leads to stress. Apart from that, many people have gone into depression because of fear of catching the virus. Many people have financial strain because of the pandemic, and they are unable to pay the bills. This also affects the mental health of individuals.Staying Confined
When a person stays inside for a long period of time, it causes cabin fever. Cabin fever causes anxiety. If left unaddressed, it leads to a decline in mental health.
No Social Contact
The Covid-19 pandemic means no or less social contact. People are advised to go out when absolutely necessary. Many people are separated from family members and co-workers, while there are some who live alone. Though some people stay connected through social media, video calls but not everyone has somebody they can talk to. Less social contact arises the feelings of loneliness and depression.
Reduced Physical Activity
Since gyms are closed, and people have to stay indoors, there is reduced physical activity. Reduced physical activity makes a person lethargic, and he feels depressed.
What Steps Can Be Taken?
Choose a Physical Activity
It is important to choose a physical activity at the time of the pandemic. You need not go outside. There are plenty of free workout videos available on the internet. You can work out even in your living room. If in your area, you are allowed to go to parks, then take a stroll and maintain social distancing to be safe from coronavirus.
Meditate
Meditation helps in improving the mental health of a person. If you don’t meditate, start today. You will see a drastic improvement in your mental health. Initially, you will feel that it’s difficult to meditate but make it your habit, and you will see favorable results.
Give Yourself “Me Time”
In the time of the pandemic, people are busy with their household chores, office work (those who are working from home), and children. Often times, we don’t find “me time.” When was the last time you sat and enjoyed your coffee? Or indulge in skincare? Do something at home, which makes you feel like you are doing something for yourself. It will relax your mind.
Talk to Your Loved Ones
In this pandemic, it is crucial to maintain connections. Call your parents, siblings, or your friends. Whenever you feel lonely, call someone you share a deep bond with. It will put your mind to ease.
Don’t Feed Yourself Negative News
It is crucial to stay informed, but when you constantly consume negative news, you become anxious. The negative news is more highlighted in the media; it causes anxiety. Limit the time that you spend on news channels. Half an hour a day is enough to get updated.
Worry Time
The best way to stop feeling anxious is to give yourself time to worry. Every day give yourself five to fifteen minutes to worry and then forget it. Worry only during your worry time. Many people are worried that they might catch the disease or already suffer from it. To rule out the possibility, use Coronavirus Instant Test Kit; it will show you the result in less than ten minutes.
Final Words
Mental health is of utmost importance. It is crucial to stay mentally healthy during coronavirus pandemic.
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