A healthy routine can keep pandemic stress at bay
As pandemic shock dies down, adjusting to the new reality can be a challenge
The initial shock triggered by the pandemic is over and we are in the adjustment phase where we need to learn to live with the current reality to keep stress levels down, a psychiatrist said.
“We need to adapt in order to stay fit mentally. With Covid19, it means that while you adapt to the new normal, you also follow all precautions to ensure you are staying safe and protecting your loved ones,” Dr Khawla Ahmad Al Mir, consultant psychiatrist at Rashid Hospital, said.
“This essentially means that you are not in denial and are doing everything you can while accepting that there is pandemic.” Mir added that it is important to stick to routines and timetables without being too rigid, but at the same time, not letting a very fluid routine get in the way of day- to- day tasks. “I strongly urge those who do not exercise to take up an activity— it could be simple exercises for 30 minutes on the mat or awalk outside nowthat the weather is cooler. Connecting with nature is therapeutic in many ways so combine spending time outdoors with exercise, but of course make sure you wear a mask and follow all precautionary measures in line with governmental regulations,” she said.
See professional help
She also encouraged community members who are not able to cope with the stress to seek professional help.
“Some level of stress is normal in a situation like this, but if it reaches unmanageable levels for long periods of time where, for instance, you can’t get out of bed, or do daily tasks, or you keep getting negative thoughts, it is time to seek professional help.”
Realistic expectations
Mir advised people to have realistic expectations and embrace the current situation.
“Women in particular should make sure they do not take on too much and find time for themselves. They should share house chores with their husbands and children,” she said.
Job insecurities
“The current situation also poses stresses which cannot be changed such as job insecurities. Although certain amount of forward planning and strategising is important to prevent sudden setbacks, overthinking is definitely not helpful for the mind,” Dr Al Mir said.
Calm down
“Finally, it is important to adopt calming down activities such as yoga, meditation or journaling and practice it daily even if it is for 15 minutes. Your mind is the backbone to health and wellbeing, take time out to protect and nurture it,” she said.