MENTAL HEALTH AND LOCKDOWN

Social isolation and lockdown have caused several unprecedented and unusual changes in our lives. We are faced with new normal of being at home and carrying out all the work. During this pandemic people are feeling bored, lonely and negatives thoughts are constantly hitting. Thus, taking care of physical as well as mental health is extremely pivotal. Mental health shouldn’t be overlooked as this can cause several health-related ailments and could even be life threatening. Not every mental health condition requires medical help like medicines. There are somethings that can be done to cure mild mental conditions like anxiety, depression, stress etc. But if the conditions aren’t subsiding, one must consult a psychiatrist or a therapist if needed. There are somethings that you can do at home for your mental wellbeing.

1. Exercise and meditate– exercising even for 10 minutes a day, boosts up oxygen level in brain that makes mind happy and relaxed. It also gives the sense of well being throughout the day. Exercise or any physical activity such as yoga helps you sleep better, reduces the risk of depression and also trims the waistline. Exercise accompanied with meditation helps negative thoughts go away and works well with mental peace. Meditation is being practiced since time immemorial to cope with stress and mood swings.
2. Learn new skill– learning new skill or working on one’s hobby this is the right time. It’s new too late to start. There are several free videos and workshops are available on internet to learn nearly anything you want. One can learn new skills like, new language, knitting, singing, sewing, cooking, creative writing, calligraphy, painting, baking, or anything related to academics. This time is precious. Explore your talent by trying endless number of things available out there. Instead of using social media for unnecessary stuffs that only gives you social anxiety, learn something fruitful.
3. Read self-help books –books are easily available on internet in pdf format. This is an affordable way to utilize your time for something productive. Any self-help book of your choice would do great. Here self-help books are emphasized because they teach a lot about life than any other book.
4. Spend time with family, friends and reconnect– have you lost relations cause of your busy schedule? This is the time to learn a few life experiences from your parents, grandparents or any other relative or acquaintance. Spend time with them, enjoy some tea with family. Watch television together. Play indoor games. Reconnect with friends and build a bond.
5. Lend a helping hand– giving gives the immense joy. That cannot be compared with anything. When you help someone, it gives you the feeling of satisfaction and you feel responsible for someone’s happiness. This helps you to restore the faith in good and keeps you motivated to do better.
6. Be kind and love yourself– acceptance about oneself is so important. Self-introspection and self-realization that you are only human and you are perfect the way you are helps you to love yourself. When you love yourself, you are more productive and you spread love too. Self-love gives feeling of satisfaction and being in love with oneself does magic for you as well as for people around you. Accept your flaws and try to work up on them. The time is now.