Maintaining Healthy Habits During Covid-19
While dealing
with the “stay-home” mandates due to Covid-19, many of us are struggling to find
a new “normal.” According to Mental Health Professionals, there are certain
things you can do to ensure better mental health amid this crisis.
Maintain Connections
Maintaining
connections with the family in your home and reaching out to friends and family
outside of your home can make you feel more grounded and less alone. For people
in your home, share physical touch throughout the day. A back rub, hug, kiss on
the cheek are all great ways to release oxytocin, a hormone that makes us feel
safe and loved. For people outside your home, call, text, FaceTime or other
social media platforms are good ways to stay in touch. Talking and laughing
with a friend will help mitigate the stress and anxiety you may be feeling.
Establish Structure
When
disruptions occur to our regular schedule and routine, we can feel uncertain
and out-of-control. In this time of crisis, it’s more important than ever to
establish a rhythm to your day. Wake up at the same time, eat at regular
intervals, schedule in time for exercise, work and fun activities. Structure
brings feelings of safety and predictability to our lives. Asking for
accountability to maintain your new schedule can help you stick to your plan.
We’re all
feeling unsettled in these times. Don’t ignore or suppress the feelings you may
be experiencing. Allow them to come and ask yourself, “What’s the healthiest
thing I can do right now?”