Life is uncertain right now and it is easy to feel depressed when we have to make changes to our daily routine. Some of us are unemployed. Some of us must work at home instead of workplaces to which we are more accustomed. Some of us must teach our children at home and, during all of this, we are worried catching the virus and about being too close to others.
I have 8 suggestions about things we can do to stay mentally healthy during this changing and scary time:
1. Wake up and sleep at regular times each day.
2. Pay attention to your personal hygiene with special focus on washing your hands.
3. Maintain a healthy diet.
4. Exercise, daily if possible. Exercise is a good antidote for depression.
5. Make time for regular work and make time for play as well.
6. Pay attention to the news while not allowing yourself to be addicted to it.
7. Contact friends by telephone and online.
8. Limit you use of alcohol.
Know that your depression about Covid is normal. Do recognize that it comes from all over the world. Please don't speak of blaming people from other specific countries for the disease here in the United States.
If you have children, recognize that they are also aware of increased mood changes in your home. Make attempts to give them extra attention. Talk to them about the importance of healthy living habits. If you are an adult, do keep contacts with friends and family. If you have a mental illness, continue treatment and stay on your prescribed medications.
At this time, anxiety is the illness of our age. We worry about ourselves, our family, our friends, our work and the state of our world. Be concerned, but, do not allow yourself to be obsessed.
Stay aware that if we allow worry to fill our hearts, sooner or later we will get sick.