Mental Health and the Pandemic

Many of us suffer from anxiety and depression and right now, with the pandemic, it is even more critical that we focus on self-care. We need to continue to improve and maintain our mental health.

Some tips during the pandemic and ways to live a life of gratitude...

First- find something you love to do. When you have an activity/hobby that you love, you are able to escape for a moment and be alone with yourself. It’s a way to recharge and reset. Doing what you love changes your mindset, improves your well-being and has a positive change on your hormones. Negative thoughts fuel depression. Positive thoughts fuel gratitude.

Second - sleep is essential. It is just as important as what we eat, drink, and breathe. Sleep allows our bodies to repair themselves and our brains to rest. Poor sleep is associated with weakened immune system, anxiety and depression. In order to improve sleep, keep a schedule and have a nightly routine. Regular exercise, earlier in the day, is known to improve sleep. Third - eating right has a direct correlation to good mental health. A diet rich in vegetables and nutrients may be associated with feelings of wellbeing. An unhealthy diet is a risk factor for anxiety and depression. In addition, it can lead to many physical health problems such as obesity and diabetes.

We all need to seek balance in our life. And one way to protect our mental health is to have a life that includes exercise/hobby/something we love to do, regular sleep, and good nutrition.

Article written by Erin D. Lytle, LCSW