It’s happened. We are heading back into a provincial lockdown.
Some called for the move, some dreaded it. For me, it’s a little of both.
While we may need these stricter measures to help flatten the COVID curve, they are not the easy option, and bring their own set of challenges.
A public health emergency like the COVID-19 pandemic can increase anxiety, stress and fear, leaving many people feeling a loss of control.
Stay-at-home and distancing measures can also increase feelings of isolation and loneliness.
There’s no magic wand to change things, but there are steps you can take to help you cope.
Try to change your focus. Distract yourself from the situation around you, try taking up a new project or hobby, and find simple sources of joy. While you can’t force yourself to have fun, you can push yourself to do things that will boost your mood throughout the day like listening to uplifting music or watching funny videos on YouTube.
Maintain a routine, try to eat and sleep well, and limit your consumption of news and social media, keeping to reputable sources.
Humans are social creatures, and while we may not be able to meet family and friends in person, we can find new ways to engage with others. Chatting over video or phone call, or via text, might not be the same, but can still help you feel more connected.
Another mood booster is getting moving. Exercising might be one of the last things you feel like doing, but regular exercise is extremely good for you. You could join the December Project - 20 minutes of movement a day with a $20 donation to Santas Anonymous. Check out the motivating Facebook group at www.facebook.com/groups/1495976267356468.
For support to get through these unprecedented times, there are also many resources available to help you find the care you need.
If you need to talk, check in with a close friend or family member, or call the 24-hour help lines:
Mental Health Helpline at 1-877-303-2642
Addiction Helpline at 1-866-332-2322
We follow health measures to look after ourselves and our province’s physical health, but it is important that we do the same for our mental health, too.
Fuchsia Dragon
[email protected]
