6 Ways to Take Care of your Mental Health and General Well Being

The COVID-19 pandemic has taken a toll on the mental and physical well-being of people. From professionals whose work has suffered, children-young adults who missed essential years of their education to family members who were separated from each other are deeply affected by the pandemic. Not to forget the family members who have faced the loss of their dear ones and also the people with pre-existing mental health symptoms. Financial situations, social stigmas, and certain circumstances are often blocks people face while hoping to seek mental health help.

It is obvious to feel sad, depressed, anxious, or helpless during this unprecedented time. But whatever situation you are experiencing in your life and wherever you are in the world, you can look after your mental health and general well-being. In this blog, we have highlighted 6 things you can do to endure not only the COVID-19 pandemic but any event that may cause stress and anxiety.

1. Talk to an individual whom you trust

Talk to someone whom you believe in, whether a friend, a relative or a colleague, who can help you cope with mental health. You may feel better if you are capable of expressing the problems you are experiencing to anyone who cares about you. If you are living in a place where social interactions are limited, you can still stay connected with your dear ones through a video call, phone call, or messaging app.

2. Take care of your physical health

Taking good care of your physical health will boost your mental health and general well-being. Try to be active for at least 30 minutes a day, whether that’s running, meditation, walking, yoga, dancing, cycling, swimming, or even gardening. Maintain a healthy and balanced diet plan and get adequate sleep.

3. Indulge in activities that you enjoy

Indulging yourself in activities that you find relevant and joyful, such as cooking, playing with your pet, walking in the park, reading good books, or watching your favourite film or TV series. Having a routine with activities that make you feel joyful will help you maintain good general well-being.

4. Keep yourself away from harmful substances

For recreational purposes, using harmful substances such as drugs, alcohol, or tobacco is an unhealthy way of coping with your emotions. These substances may make you feel better in the short term, however, they can make your health worse in the long term. These substances are highly dangerous and can put you along with those around you at a high risk of diseases or injuries that will deeply affect your mental health.

5. Take two minutes to witness the world around you

Try to avoid agitating thoughts by spending time in nature. Just take three slow deep breaths, relax in the comfortable positions and start asking yourself:

• What are things I am grateful for?

• What is the purpose of my life?

• What are four things I can hear around?

• What can I smell?

6. Seek medical help

If you feel you cannot endure the stress and tension that you are experiencing, take the help of a professional for your mental health care by seeking advice from your counsellor or doctor. Always remember that you are not alone, and there are things you can do to cope with your mental health and support your emotional wellbeing.

Mental health is often neglected as it does not have visible symptoms like physical ailments. It is important to acknowledge that mental health needs to be managed and is as relevant to your wellbeing as physical health.

Keeping a positive, stress-free attitude goes a long way in promoting good mental health. Staying calm and taking things one day at a time helps to keep the mind calm and capable of coping with daily challenges. When you allow stress to build up over time, it can lead to panic attacks.

Mental health issues among the elderly needs to be addressed carefully. In the second innings of their life, senior citizens cope with a multitude of feelings – depression, loss of self-esteem, bereavement, financial dependence, and more. Samvedna Care offers expert counselling services to help the elderly maintain a sense of wellbeing. There are packages available that offer meditation, relaxation exercises, group therapy, and counselling sessions that can help senior citizens feel positive.

Give equal importance to mental and physical health to maintain general wellbeing and a sense of harmony. A sound mind in a sound body is a great recipe for a happy, well-balanced life.