COVID-19 has been the most significant talking point in the world for several months now. The pandemic has changed the way that we live and work on a fundamental level, with many people forced to stay in their homes for every hour of the day. Although most of the discussion about the coronavirus concentrates on how to defend your physical health during this trying time, it’s important to remember that the impact on your mental health may be significant too.

A sudden and significant transformation in your routine is sure to through your emotions off balance. So how do you safeguard yourself during this trying time?

1. Stay Connected (The Right Way)

To avoid physical health threats, many countries are advising their citizens to avoid interactions with loved ones. This means that we’re spending a lot less time with the people we care about. Unfortunately, as social creatures, human beings have a tough time surviving without emotional connections to others.

To ensure you don’t feel too isolated during this difficult time, find a way to stay connected. Reach out to your friends on social media and arrange regular calls with your loved ones. Video calls can be a great way to replicate the face-to-face interactions that you’re missing. 

While you’re working on preserving human connections, make sure that your link to the internet doesn’t make your mental health worse. Try to avoid reading too many news reports and opinion pieces in one day, as it could lead to excess anxiety.

2. Get The Right Amount of Sleep

If you’re stuck, unable to go to the office each day, then you might be working from home with a more flexible schedule. This could mean that you have a hard time keeping track of when you should be going to sleep, and when you need to wake up.

Try not to let your sleeping schedule shift too dramatically during this difficult time. You might end up getting less rest than you need, which means that you’ll have a harder time managing your emotions. If you’re having a hard time sticking to your routine, do things to help yourself.

Getting exercise early in the day will help to keep your mind occupied and ease you into sleep at night. It also helps to have a consistent nightly routine, like drinking a cup of tea before bed.

3. Try to Anticipate Stress

Finally, it’s difficult to know how any of us will respond to the ever-changing series of news stories we see on our computers and television screens. However, you can recognize when you’re starting to feel emotionally overwhelmed and drained.

Try to pay attention to your mood and how you feel on a regular basis. If you notice that you’re starting to feel panicked, it might be helpful to set up some strategies that will help you to overcome those feelings of anxiety. For instance, consider speaking to a loved one about your worries. Alternatively, you could download an app for guided meditation and use that to relax.

You can also make life easier for other people by anticipating their stress. For instance, if you notice that your spouse is getting uncomfortable listening to the news reports about COVID, then it might be worth turning them off for a while. If you know your parents will panic if they don’t hear from you for a few days, make time to call them.

Take Care of Yourself

The world will return to a state of normalcy at some point. However, for now, it’s essential to be patient with yourself. You’re dealing with a once-in-a-lifetime event, and you’re bound to have some emotional difficulties. Use the tips above to try and manage your stress during this complicated time.