How can you deal with mental health and cope in the time of COVID-19?
- Remember That It’s Okay To Feel Emotions
- Get Enough Rest and Sleep
- Try To Squeeze in Some Physical Activity
- Eliminate Vices
- Dedicate Your Time for Things You Love
- Get Help When Needed
As a contributor to health and wellness in the Philippines, we believe it is our responsibility to tackle topics that matter. This year, the unprecedented shift in events due to the COVID-19 outbreak has taken a huge toll on people’s mental health and well-being. Previously, the Philippines already held the highest rates of depression in Southeast Asia. As we observe World Suicide Prevention Day this September, it is of the utmost importance for us to spread awareness to individuals trying to get through these stressful and uncertain times.
Remember That It’s Okay To Feel Emotions
You may be feeling denial, anger, withdrawal, discomfort, uneasiness, stress, and sadness during these times. This is completely okay. Keep in mind that what you are feeling is valid and normal. We are all going through times of uncertainty, and these are indeed frightening times. While we still don’t know exactly how long this pandemic will last, here are some good ways to manage your emotions and build stronger mental health.
Get Enough Rest and Sleep
Sa gitna ng pandemya, pangalagaan ang iyong sarili. Ito ay makakatulong sa iyo na manatiling physically at mentally healthy. Isa sa mga pinakamabisang paraan sa pangangalaga sa mental health ay ang sapat na tulog. Matulog ng hindi bababa sa 7-8 hours bawat gabi. Kung ikaw ay nahihirapan matulog, ito ang mga paraan na maaari mong subukan:
- Iwasan uminom ng caffeine sa hapon
- Regular na mag-exercise, kahit na 10 minuto lang sa isang araw
- Huwag kumain ng mabibigat na pagkain sa gabi
- Gawing komportable at tahimik ang paligid
- Uminom ng melatonin
Try To Squeeze in Some Physical Activity
Exercising is another good way to build stronger mental health. Working out or doing any physical activity boosts the chemicals in your brain that improve your mood. It is also a great way to release stress. If you’re working or studying from home, try to squeeze in at least 10 minutes of physical activity per day. Whether it’s walking, yoga, or playing with your pets — all that matters is that you get your body moving or release a little sweat.
Eliminate Vices
Para sa karamihan, ang mga bisyo ay isang paraan ng pag-cope. Gayunpaman, sa harap ng pandemiyang ito, maaari itong makagawa ng mas marami pang pinsala sa iyong mental and physical health. Higit pa sa inaasahan mo. Itigil ang paninigarilyo at labis na pag-inom.
Dedicate Your Time for Things You Love
Instead of doing vices, make way for the things that you love. Now that most are at home, it's a great way to dedicate time to your hobbies and interests. Or better yet, learn something new! What is it that you’ve been putting off before the pandemic? There are tons of things you can learn on the internet nowadays. This will keep your mind at ease and keep you busy and happy.
Get Help When Needed
Sa kaso kung saan sa tingin mo ay masyado nang mabigat ang mga bagay, tandaan na mabuti rin na humingi ng tulong. Ito ay maaaring sa anyo ng paghahanap ng tulong mula sa isang kaibigan, miyembro ng iyong pamilya, o isang doctor. Humingi ng tulong kung kinakailangan, hindi ka nag-iisa.
Key Takeaway
As we observe World Suicide Prevention Day this September, we want to spread awareness and be of help to those who are struggling with their mental health. Especially during these stressful, frightening, and uncertain times. Always remember to go easy on yourself and trust that things will get better.