Hi! How are you? Are you coping up well? It is perfectly fine to admit that your mental health has been suffering (more) since the pandemic started – limiting your movement around – and multiple lockdowns have been implemented across the globe. The feeling of hopelessness during this time is unavoidable and that is okay; we are here to help you get through this.
In this article, we will list down little things you can do to cope and to take care of your mental health during the pandemic and lockdown.
#1 Celebrate Even Little Achievements
Achieving something is an achievement, no matter how big or small it is. Even if you accomplished something so little during the day, it is worth being happy about. Pat yourself on the shoulder even after achieving something small such as completing 8 hours of sleep, waking up early, fixing your bed, or even watering the plants!
#2 Write Down Your Thoughts
Most people have been having trouble reaching out to people. Moreso, since the pandemic started. So, when there are times that you get thoughts that you would like to share, an inner voice might tell you that what you are about to share might be petty or not worth other’s time. Writing down your thoughts in a notebook, journal, or planner is a great alternative for such. The feeling is just the same as sharing your thoughts with someone, but with the benefit of being sure that no one will judge you.
#3 Take Care of a Plant or a Pet
The feeling of hopelessness may be a result of having no sense of purpose, which is common given that being locked down at home has limited your everyday movement before the pandemic. A great solution for that is to start taking care of a plant or a pet. Because once you do, that will give you a sense of purpose in life which is to ensure that they get to live. And taking care of them might develop a need to take care of yourself.
#4 Start Long-Term Projects
Another way to have a sense of purpose is to start long-term projects. Not only does it feel fulfilling once you have finished the project, but it also teaches you discipline and how to value it. A lot of people have turned to paint by numbers, crochet, starting a journal, or even redecorating their spaces. You can even make yourself your project by indulging yourself in fitness routines.
#5 List Down What You Are Grateful For
This exercise is a great thing to do the moment you wake up as you start your day or before going to sleep as you conclude it. This helps you reflect on the events that have happened the day before and can help you stay in a good mood for the rest of the day. You can also list down what you are thankful for when you are feeling down or empty.
The state of your mental health keeps you going in life as a healthy body is nothing when the mind that controls it does not feel like moving at all. We hope this list has helped and don’t forget to thank yourself for living today!