COVID-19: How to take care of your mental health
MANILA, Philippines — As the novel coronavirus pandemic highlights the importance of taking care of one’s physical health, experts said that mental health should be prioritized as well.
“Feeling worried and anxious is an expected reaction to the current crisis. It is normal to worry about our health and that of our loved ones, our work, and finances,” said the Psychological Association of the Philippines in Facebook post.
Here are their suggestions to keep your mental health in check:
- Focus on what you can control.
- Take care of your physical health to prevent the spread of the disease: wash your hands frequently; avoid crowded places; clean and disinfect frequently; practice social distancing, among others.
- Limit your social media use. Heavy consumption of news and social media may take a psychological toll. Set limits on your use of social media.
- Adopt a routine. Having a regular routine at home or at work will give you a better sense of purpose and order to your day.
- Maintain good health. Eat nutritious food and stay hydrated. Get at least six hours of sleep.
- Take time to do things you enjoy. Indulge yourself. Watch your favorite show, take up hobbies, dance, pray, or do other things that make you feel good.
- Practice empathy and compassion. Find ways to contribute or assist those in need of support during this crisis.
- Stay connected. Reach out to your family and check on them. Reach out to a trusted friend or seek additional support from mental health/ counseling services.
If you are having trouble sleeping, eating, or doing anything to help yourself or others, seek for mental health care or counseling services.
The PAP, however, discourages face-to-face consultations at this time.
The group reminded this current crisis is not the end and majority of the people who contract the virus will recover.
“Scientists and experts are currently working hard to find a cure and vaccine for COVID-19. There is help coming from the government, non-government, and private sectors,” they said.
EDV
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