LIFESTYLE
COPING IN THE PANDEMIC: MENTAL HEALTH
Words: Sherrylou Nemis, Angela Mae Moreno, and Iya Lorraine Baring
When the hype of Dalgona coffee dwindled, the joy of baking random goodies disappeared, TikTok videos failed to amuse, and reading books stopped making sense, it’s when these worries started to creep up and get the best of us.
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There is nothing much to do but get lost on your own train of thoughts, alone. But worry not because there are ways to get out of your mental slump and get your healthy self back on track.
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When we are battling depression, anxiety, or even stress we tend to get hard on ourselves; sometimes choosing to ignore taking care of our well-being.
THINGS YOU CAN DO TO TAKE CARE OF YOUR MENTAL HEALTH
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Social media break
We may not know it but sometimes, it's our excessive use of social media that affects our mental health.
Unrealistic beauty standards being set by people, relationship “goals” that make you jealous instead of inspired, negative comments and fake news being easily peddled.
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Not only is this not good for our mental health but our bodies too! Haven’t you noticed how we slouch our back while scrolling through our phones? Or how awkward our position gets when using our computers? So, stretch that back and crack some bones! Give your eyes some loving and stay clear from technology glare.
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It's good to stay away from our social media accounts from time to time and clear our minds from toxic thoughts brought to us by social media.
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2. Quiet your mind
Relaxing your mind can boost your mental health and can make you have a positive outlook in life.
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3. Meditate
Meditation is a simple practice that anyone can do which can reduce stress, increase calmness, and stimulate happiness. You’re not trying to turn off your thoughts or feelings; you’re learning to observe them without judgment. And eventually, you may start to better understand them as well.
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4. Value yourself
Handle yourself with respect, love, and kindness. Don’t be hard on yourself as everyone is allowed to feel exhausted especially in this time of pandemic. Even though it looks like everything is not right, learning how to value yourself is a big step for taking care of your mental health. You are worth it, you are loved, you matter.
5. Take care of your body
Taking care of your body can improve your mental health. Make sure to eat healthy meals, drink plenty of water, do some workouts, and get enough sleep. But it doesn’t just stop there!
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Taking care of ourselves also includes taking a bath everyday and making sure we are clean (I know, I know it's hard because we are always at home and no one can smell us. But hey what if you dreamt of your crush and in your dreams, they knew you haven’t taken a bath? Yikes right?). So if you haven’t, head straight to the shower. Moisturize thyself with whatever lotion you fancy.
6. Surround yourself with good people
Cutting off toxic people in your life can have a big impact on your mental health. Sometimes, it is easier to let people go than to deal with their attitude. Make sure to get along with people who bring peace to your life. Don’t feel bad about cutting off others. Always remember that your health is more important than them.
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7. Learning how to deal with stress
If you are under stress, try practicing good coping skills: Like reading books (maybe this is the right time to catch up on your reading list!), listen to music (a lot of good songs had been out lately), play with your pet, work on your old hobbies, or find new hobbies like crocheting, cooking, and photography!
8. Set realistic goals
Think of what you want to achieve academically, professionally, and personally. Write it down in a journal, or in a board wherein you can hang it up and always be reminded of your goals. But don’t pressure yourself! If you find yourself stumbling along the way, that’s okay! Dust yourself, start again, and say, “I can do this!” A little progress is still progress!
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9. New routine
Our daily routine is affected because of the pandemic, and it’s hard to carry on when we have no idea what to do next. Setting a new routine that will make you productive for the day will help you not to feel lost.
Like with your goals, you can list down your schedule for the day and put it on a place wherein you can always see it. It may be hard on the first few days but you’ll get the hang of it like the true champ that you are.
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10. Get help when you need it.
There’s nothing wrong with reaching out especially when it is too much to handle. Numerous health professionals continuously give advice on how to deal with mental health issues but strongly point out that there are no quick fixes and people with severe cases still need to seek professional help.
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Everyone has been struggling on different aspects since the pandemic started. As silent as it may be, its weight has been dragging emotions that are too much to handle. Never be ashamed to ask for help.
Someone out there is always willing to listen.
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Together, we can survive this pandemic with a healthy mind, body, and soul. Tandaan, hindi tayo pinalaki ng Sexbomb girls para mag bawi-bawi lagi; laban laban lang, sis!
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