Wellness tips amid pandemic
Daily headlines report the number of deaths attributed to COVID19, with grim statistics that highlight unemployment, flat stock prices and dim industry forecasts. Far less visible are the mental health effects as issues beyond our control can spark feelings of isolation, anxiety and depression.
While we struggle through these public health challenges, the pandemic's effects on mental health are also critical. One in four adults and one in five children will experience a mental health issue during any given year. The Healthy Minds Policy Initiative recently reported that as many as 18,400 Oklahomans could attempt suicide in the next 12 months under the burdens of stress and depression.
Even as daily life resumes with fewer restrictive measures, economic uncertainty looms large. Unknowns regarding finances, fear of a second wave of infection and the constancy of rapid change make for stressful times. Knowing how to cope is key.
Here are five tips for improved mental wellness during the COVID-19 pandemic:
• Plan a routine and des
ignate work vs. rest time.
Whether you're working from home or following a different schedule, prioritize each day's activities. Observe regular hours to complete work, job hunt or pursue dedicated hobbies. Take breaks. Establish a designated bedtime to prioritize sleep.
• Take care of yourself with diet and exercise. Keep your diet healthy for optimal physical as well as mental health. Change your mood by increasing your level of physical activity. This month, NAMI Oklahoma is launching the Move for Mental Health campaign to emphasize the all-encompassing aspects of wellness and highlight the need to care for our minds as well as our bodies. Participants can show their support online as a way to gear up for the national campaign kick-off, NAMIWalks, on May 30.
• Be present in the moment.
Worries about the future can feel less intense if you focus on your current activities. Meditation or other spiritual practices may help you find ways to focus on what you are grateful for now and hone in on feelings that you might otherwise ignore.
• Connect with others.
Mitigate feelings of isolation by reaching out to friends, family members and coworkers. NAMI Oklahoma's Chain of Love Challenge invites participants to share their efforts on social media and tag others to participate. Find out more at www.namioklahoma.org/ chain-of-love-challenge.
• Seek help when needed.
Expanded coverage options that include mental health services are now part of many insurance plans. Find additional resources on our website at www.namioklahoma. org and reach out to a qualified professional if needed.