Over the past few months, physical health has been at the forefront of our consciousness as everything seems to have been revolving around the pandemic. As time has passed, we have seen clearly that putting other concerns at the forefront – whether economic, social, or psychological – only exacerbates the extent of the crisis.
The problem is that with all the focus on physical health, mental health has had to be put on the backburner. Many people suffering from mental illness have to avoid therapy in order to keep themselves safe from the virus. Unfortunately, mental health emergencies do not cease to exist just because physical health is at risk, and people have been forced to think outside the box to get help.
Ideally, we should try to keep our mental health stable during this time so that we do not find ourselves in urgent distress. Since this crisis may go on for quite a while, it is imperative we all take measures to stay mentally healthy.
Here are some ideas to consider for taking care of your mental health in quarantine.
Boundaries are crucial
Because our normal lives are on hold, the boundaries that give us a sense of stability have blurred. We don’t need to get up for work at a specific time. We don’t need to get dressed or eat meals at regular hours. The weekend can feel just like weekdays. The living room becomes the office at some moments and an ad hoc bedroom at others.
Our boundaries take even more of a hit when we are in quarantine with others. The concept of personal space is paramount in this context. If personal space isn't respect, this can lead to more than just frustration -- you can begin to feel a disconnection from your sense of self.
Implementing boundaries is crucial during this time. They don’t need to be strict boundaries, but they need to be explicitly put in place. Tell your partner, roommate, or family that you need space at certain hours. Make a schedule for yourself to follow, even if you don’t have work to do. Keep the kitchen off-limits except at meal and snack times.
These boundaries will help you keep your sense of self-stable and provide you with stability and a sense of safety. It is one of the most important steps for taking care of your mental health during this time -- not just in the pandemic, but also in general.
Find something easy but productive to do
I get really annoyed by online influencers calling people lazy for not doing that project they never have time for. We are going through a global crisis. It is not easy to motivate yourself to commit to the project of your dreams.
Nonetheless, having nothing to do can lead anyone to spiral into an existential crisis. If you have been let go from your job or are simply on indefinite leave, finding something productive to do will help you keep your mental health in check.
While this should be something productive, it should also be relatively easy and enjoyable. Start a blog if you enjoy writing. It does not need to be perfect, but it will give you an outlet to express yourself.
If you do start a blog, get the technical stuff out of the way first. You can find out what you need from good web hosting in these Cloudways reviews. Use WordPress or Wix to set up your blog in an hour or two.
Alternatively, commit to learning something you have always wanted to do. But make sure you set easy and specific goals. For example, learn to play a few chords rather than trying to learn to play guitar.
Use online resources
Online therapy is more helpful than ever during these times. A therapy session can help you get everything off your chest, whether fear about the virus and work or frustration with your partner. This is one case where boundaries become particularly important. Knowing you have the space for a therapy session is crucial to being able to share.
Other online resources include mindfulness websites and apps, CBT apps, and meditation videos. If you need important information but are scared to go to a psychiatrist’s office, you can also try contacting them online.
Mental health is incredibly important during this crisis, but it is hard to get treatment. Try and keep your mind as healthy as possible, and be sure to get treatment when necessary.
