5 Ways to Take Care of your Mental Health During the COVID-19 Pandemic

While staying at home to protect your family and community during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, you may be feeling a heighted level of anxiety and stress. Our day-to-day life looks very different than it did a few weeks ago, and relaxing may seem more difficult today than it was before our lives became consumed by COVID-19. Everyone has been impacted by this in some way and taking care of your mental health is more important now than ever.  

1. Take a break from the news

It’s important to balance your intake of COVID-19 news. Whether you are watching, listening or reading the news, the amount of information can be overwhelming. Even scrolling through social media can cause overstimulation. Find the balance you need by taking breaks while keeping yourself informed from sources you can trust.

2. Connect with your loved ones

Living in these virtual times makes connecting with your loved ones easier than ever. Whether it’s a phone call or video chat, taking some time to talk with the people you love can bring comfort and joy despite the physical distance between you. Talk with people you trust about your concerns and how you are feeling - you may find that they are feeling the same way. Talking it out can be beneficial for both of you.

3. Get a workout in

Physical health is not just good for your body, it is also great for your mind. Even with gyms closed, there are still plenty of options to get a workout in. Some options include taking a walk around your neighborhood, going for a bike ride or using free resources and workouts online. The most important thing is getting your body moving, which will help you keep a positive mindset.

4. Take time to relax

Have you ever wanted to learn a new language? Do you have gardening goals you have been wanting to achieve? Do you want to finish that book you’ve been putting off for months? It is so important for you to set time aside for yourself right now. Be sure to devote some time to unwind and do something you enjoy or have been putting off for months.

5. Join myStrength: the TGH Health Club for Your Mind

Take charge of your mental health by joining myStrength: TGH’s health club for your mind. myStrength is safe and secure, anonymous support for your emotional health. It offers personalized resources to improve your mood and face your emotional wellness challenges head on. Learning to use myStrength’s tools can help you overcome the challenges you face, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. To sign up today, visit www.mystrength.com, click on “Sign Up” and enter the Access Code, TGHComm. Then, complete the myStrength sign-up process and personal profile.

Rachel Bozich, Fitness Center Supervisor at Tampa General Hospital says “We are trying to learn how to live in this new world; create a new routine! A routine can help you feel ‘normal’ during this time of anything but normal. Try to wake up at the same time each day (not sleeping in until noon). Eat breakfast. Change into an outfit like what you would wear to work. Be physically active. Find a routine that works best for you and your family!”