As different countries introduce various measures like restricting movement and quarantine to slow down the spread of COVID-19, this has adversely affected our normal routines. The new realities of isolation, working from home, financial uncertainty caused by temporary unemployment, and lack of physical contact from friends, take time to get used to.

Adapting to the new lifestyle changes, coupled with the stress of fear of getting the virus and worrying about our families, the future can be challenging for all of us, thus affecting our mental well-being. As we strive to get updated about coronavirus and its impact, there are several things we can do to manage our mental health.

Stay informed by reputable sources.

Speculations and rumors mostly fuel anxiety. To get the right information, watch trusted news channels such as national TV and radio. Also, listen for advice about the pandemic from national and local authorities. This isn’t the time to believe everything you read on social media and personal blogs. Instead, follow reputable sources like the CDC or the World Health Organization.

You can also limit the time spent on following up about the pandemic. If the news is causing you distress and anxiety, you’ll need to find a balance. Take time to watch or read about something that keeps you calm and relaxed. Do things you enjoy, or even try to exercise.

Stay connected.

If your movements are restricted, avoid social isolation and contact friends and family via social media or telephone calls. If you’re not restricted from going out, you can take walks every day, but make sure you’re wearing a mask and observing social distancing recommendations. Purchase your masks from Facemasks-UK and remember to wash your hands.

If you know someone who can’t get out due to various reasons, offer some help by doing their shopping and checking after them via emails or texts. If you’re able to, you can also provide relief to people going through hardships during this time. Doing some shopping or supporting them can mean a lot to them.

Get help when you need it.

Despite your best efforts to stay positive, you may find that you still have feelings of sadness, loneliness, depression, and helplessness. You may also find that you have difficulty doing simple stuff like sleeping, concentrating on typical tasks, and changes in appetite or body fatigue. When these symptoms last for several days in a row, and you find it difficult to do daily tasks, making you miserable or feel that life is unbearable, it’s time to ask for help.

Having hopes of your stress and anxiety going away on their own may even worsen the situation. If you have concerns about your mental health or experiencing worsening cases of anxiety and panic, ask for help. It may be hard, but you can talk to your close friends or seek professional help from a primary caregiver, and ask for advice and guidance to help you feel better.