Managing your mental health during this pandemic.

I am sure most of us have a lot of issues bothering us.

• How are we going to manage the financial crisis?
• How safe is my job?
• Why am I scared to touch anything that's around me?

At a time when the world is fighting the pandemic, which has affected a lot of people, there is a massive rise in the people suffering from mental health conditions. Schools have become online, work has become remote, groceries are delivered through online apps. We are living through the first global pandemic in the digital age. Isolation and confinement can cause lasting anxiety and this cannot be neglected. If you have been feeling anxious, angry, confused, claustrophobic or even germaphobic lately, know that YOU ARE NOT ALONE.

Create a new daily routine that prioritises SELF CARE. When we are stressed out, it is easy for us to let go of our positive self-care activities and prioritize other activities like work and household chores. Instead, read your favourite book, binge-watch all the movies you have missed on, have an exercise routine, try a new relaxation technique, play with your pet, listen to music or your favourite podcast, cook your favourite meal, write down positive affirmations right when you wake up or before going to bed or pick up a new hobby. You have so many things around you to keep you occupied and happy.

 At times of stress, we work better in company and with support. I try and keep in touch with my family and friends through video calls or social media. This is a total stress buster for me during the lockdown. At the same time I believe that it's vital that we keep a sense of community and be there for each other. The elders especially are reluctant to share things as they feel they are adding on to our already existing issues and suffer in silence. I video call my parents and the extended family on a daily basis and help them out in ordering online, thus keeping them engrossed in conversations.

If this persists and the anxiety worsens, don’t hesitate to get professional help. It is ok to seek help.

BREATHE, It is just a bad phase, this too shall pass!