Maintain Your Mental Health During the Shutdown

By now, you have heard from the recent news in regards to the new stay-at-home advisories within the Chicago area. While this new order is not as restrictive because the one we went through in March, still it cautions us to try to stay home whenever possible. There is no doubt that these quarantine orders make an impact on people coping with mental illnesses. But as we draw nearer to the end of this year, what else are we able to can do to continue to keep our mental health so as? Here are a few methods to keep your mental health during the shutdown.

Cope with Pandemic Fatigue

Many people today have finished this pandemic. They're fed up with wearing masks and mostly remaining in the home. There's a phrase for this which is known as pandemic fatigue. This fatigue is not exactly a physical disease, but it's a condition that has caused many to develop a lack of motivation, difficulty concentrating, and feelings of hopelessness, simply to name a few. If you have found yourself experiencing this, help is available for you.

Stay in touch with your friends and family on Zoom. Take up a new hobby for example baking or decorating. Still eat healthily and obtain adequate amounts of sleep every single day. Participate in some exercises that will help to alleviate stress.

Continue to Reach To Family and Friends

If you've already been helping seniors and those that are less fortunate, continue doing so. Give them a call to make sure they are doing well and staying safe. Ask them what they need you to bring them or maybe any errands needed to be run. Send them a card or perhaps a gift basket to ensure they are feel better. Doing things for other people is a great way to keep your mental health in shape. It keeps you busy and enables you to feel better about yourself.

Another group of people you can assistance is the disabled. Reach out to them by any means you are able to, whether it's over the phone or email. Do their house chores and cook for them. Also, help out with any laundry needs they have. Think it is in your heart to assist those who are less fortunate.

Don't Overindulge in Drugs and Alcohol

Being mostly stuck in the home is responsible for many people to succumb to drugs and alcohol. The winter holiday season is among the times where people are most likely to become bombarded with these things, especially alcohol. This really is noted for being the busiest season for most people, but that doesn't mean it's OK to find relaxation in alcohol and medicines. These two things only worsen your mental health issues and may trigger panic attacks. Also, research shows that about 20 percent of people having a mental health disorder for example depression in addition have a drug abuse disorder. Whenever you feel you need to relax, turn to a healthier coping mechanism such as hearing soft jazz music.

Keep the Faith During this Winter Shutdown

The winter season will probably be looking a lot different this year. But we all can manage our mental health in the winter with professional guidance and the aid of family and friends. However, now is also the time to rely on another type of guidance in this shutdown. If you are spiritually minded people, that guidance comes from God.

But meanwhile, continue contacting family and friends around you can, don't succumb to overindulging in alcohol and medicines, and make an effort to deal with pandemic fatigue. Doing these things will help keep you keep your mental health throughout the shutdown and through this winter months. Should you or someone you know are feeling down this year, e mail us for more information concerning mental health treatment.