With just five months into the pandemic, it is still hard to grasp the scale and scope of COVID-19’s global impact. A third of the world population is under some sort of “lockdown.” Over 200 countries are affected, and the number of new cases and deaths in many places are still growing exponentially.
As if that is not enough, a second crisis, in the form of an economic recession, is underway.
We all want to leave this crisis behind as soon as now and are eager to restart social and economic life. However, people have lost so much. Some everything including a loved one. This has caused so much pain, then fear, then uncertainty in the minds of many. Now, this is where everyone has to be on the alert because the neighbour or colleague you saw one month ago might have become a totally different person now due to emotional trauma as a result of so many factors such as loss of job or source of income.
The issue of emotional health has become a topic that must be discussed. You might be strong or have not been deeply impacted by this pandemic but you will at some point meet or have something to do with someone who has. This is where a good knowledge of managing depression will be useful for you. If you have been affected, please read through these tips on how to help possibly overcome depression in this trying time;
Acknowledge there’s a problem:
You see, it is much more difficult to console someone who refuses to accept that something tragic has happened like the loss of a loved one. This is why it is important to acknowledge that this period has affected you negatively. That way a solution can be thought out. Living in denial will not be helpful to you or anyone else at this point.
Let your emotions out:
If you feel like crying please do. Crying when you’ve suffered a loss or are going through a difficult time is helpful as it helps you release bottled up emotions. Expressing grief is very healthy for our mental and emotional state.
Set a limit on media consumption:
This includes social media, local or national news because at this point everything the media says is connected to the virus. Watch programs that take your attention away from the topic and read articles like this that aim to help you enjoy even the littlest things of life.
Stay connected:
Connect with loved ones and others who may be experiencing stress about the outbreak. Talk about your feelings and enjoy conversation(s) unrelated to the outbreak. This is important especially if your community is still on lockdown.
Support and help others:
Helping someone else can benefit you as well as them. If you haven’t suffered so much from the impact, try to be a little more understanding of other people’s concerns, worries or behaviours at this time. Think of things you can do to help those around you. Is there a friend or family member nearby you could reach out to? Are there any community groups you could join to support others locally?
Remember, it is important to do this in line with official coronavirus guidance to keep everyone safe.
Take care of your body:
Our physical health has a significant impact on how we feel. At times like these, it is quite easy to fall into unhealthy patterns and behaviours that end up making you feel worse.
Eat healthy:
Try to eat healthy, well-balanced meals, drink enough water and exercise regularly. Drugs, and and alcohol will not take away reality so, it’s better to avoid these duo. You can leave your house, alone or with members of your household, for a walk, run or bike ride. But make sure you keep a safe 2-metre distance from others and use your certified facemask. Or you could try one of easy 10-minute home workouts.
Go for reliable information:
Get accurate health information from reputable sources. For health information about COVID-19, please contact the Centers for Disease Control in your country or our local healthcare provider. At this point in time, lots of unhealthy information are flying around. Unfollow them if you have to and restrict yourself only to reliable sources.
Speak to an emotional wellness professional:
If you still experience emotional distress even after trying all these tips, it’s okay. Just speak to your doctor and you’ll be linked up with a professional who can help you through this trying time.
Your mental health is important so, do well to be strong despite the devastating effects of the health issue the world is facing today. We will come through this and become better as a collective when this is over. There’s light at the end of the tunnel.
Ibiene wants you to stay safe.
Our ears are open to listen. How have you been affected lately? Do you want to share? Please jump on the comment section.
