During these trying times, social distancing and staying at home are incredibly important. It can be hard to stay positive though when isolation can have such huge negative effects on our mental health.
The following tips and strategies will help you ensure that you are looking after your mental wellbeing even during isolation.
Get creative
Having more time at home is the perfect way to start a new creative hobby. Many studies suggest that getting into the ‘flow’ of a creative activity takes your mind off stress, reduces anxiety and slows your heart rate. Whether it is drawing, playing an instrument, writing or colouring – choose something that works for you.
Stay connected
Feeling isolated and alone is very hard no our mental health. Just because you are physically apart it doesn’t mean you are alone. Make sure you keep in contact with your friends whether it is through phone calls, video chats or even letter writing. Some people, particularly those with existing mental health conditions, may find this period incredibly difficult. Ensure that when you are talking to your friends and family you ask how they are feeling and if they are okay.
Keep active
Keeping active isn’t just beneficial for your body but it also does wonders for your mental health. There are many ways you can exercise in the house such as yoga, Pilates and weights. Keep it social by getting friends together and work out over video chat. Whether it’s through an app on your phone, or a video on YouTube, there are plenty of free resources to help you get started on your home fitness journey.
Take a break
Constantly reading the news and seeing people’s reactions on social media to the current COVID-19 crisis can be incredibly overwhelming. Try to only look at the news only once a day for recent updates to allow your mind a break from stress and worry.
Structure your day
Creating some sort of structure to your day will ensure that you don’t just stay in bed or on social media. Whether you are working from home or not, try to set goals for yourself. These goals will help you stay motivated to get out of the bed in the morning.
Remain calm
It is okay to be stressed about this situation, but it helps to remember that public health experts are working hard to contain the virus and that eventually thing will get better. Although it is hard to self-isolate, you are doing the right thing to protect yourself, your family and the wider community.
National support lines
- Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 497
- Kids Helpline (up to 25 years): 1800 551 800
- Lifeline: 13 11 14
- Men’s Line Australia: 1300 789 978
- Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636
- Q-life LGBTQIA+: 1800 184 527
- Lifeline Text (6pm-12am): 0477 131 114
- GriefLine: 1300 845 745
