Wow, the last time I left my house for something other than groceries and the pharmacy was March 15th! The coronavirus quarantine has definitely taken a toll on my mental health. COVID19 has changed the world as we knew it and today we find ourselves living in the “after”. And it is more important than ever that we take care of our mental health.
After the outbreak started people began canceling travel and working from home. After cases of COVID19 starting popping up all over the country states began shutting down gyms, restaurants, and all nonessential businesses were instructed to work remotely or close up shop. I’ve always tried to be transparent about my mental health, it is the only way we will end the stigma. Taking care of your mental health during the coronavirus quarantine should be just as important as taking care of your physical health.
Within the first few days of quarantine I reached out to my doctor about getting a new prescription for anti anxiety meds. I have struggled with anxiety and panic attacks since I was 15. And over the last two years I’ve actually been really proud of how I’ve managed my mental health, I was in a really good place at the beginning of the year. I’ve done talk therapy, been on medications, explored meditation and breathing exercises. But when the breakout first started to ramp up I began experiencing back to back panic attacks, I want able to sleep through the night, and was all around more anxious than I had been in a long time.
So I did what any self aware adult should, I asked myself what I needed to do to take care of my mental health.
Number one, I went back on anti anxiety medication. I am currently taking an “as needed” medication, meaning I don’t take it daily, just when I am feeling really overwhelmed by my anxiety symptoms. I had been on this medication in the past so it was an easy choice for me and my doctor. If you have never been on anti anxiety medication before but think you could benefit contact your doctor. There are a lot of different drugs on the market and it may take some time to find the right medication for you. Work with your doctor, be honest with yourself about how you’re feeling, and really try to categorize your feelings: is of anxiety, panic, or even depression?
Number two, I need to workout everyday. I was devastated when my gym had to close. It was the correct decision but working out every day is a huge part of my mental health routine. I’ll be rounding up all the at home workouts I’ve been doing for you in another post. There are tons out there, whether you go for a daily run, stream yoga on YouTube, or are working out on your Peloton bike. It is so important to get moving everyday.
Number three, I’m trying not to put a ton of pressure on myself. So many people out there are talking about how productive they are being during quarantine. They’re working from home, finishing DIY home projects, learning a new skill or language, the list goes on and on. And if you are looking for something to do during quarantine these lists are great! But don’t feel pressured to make the most of every minute of the day. It’s okay if all you do is survive day to day.
There is no perfect formula for taking care of mental health. Every person is different and what works for me may not work for you. But just know that it is okay if you’re not okay. The majority of us have never lived through something like this before and it is scary. We are all concerned for the health and wellbeing of our friends, family, and ourselves. People are loosing their jobs, or now lack the job security they have just a few weeks ago. So it’s okay to focus on yourself right now, be honest about what you need, and talk to the people you love and trust.
If you are struggling with mental health right now there are resources out there for you:
National Suicide Prevention Line 1-800-273-8255
In Massachusetts they have also set up a suicide prevention program, Call2Talk, you can access it by dialing 2-1-1. Call2Talk is also available by calling 508-532-2255 or by texting C2T to 741741.
Other things you can do for yourself:
-Do a facemask
-Read a book
-Put on some music and dance it out
-Go for a walk (while maintaining social distancing)
-FaceTime a loved one
-Meditate, tons of great apps out there to teach you!
It’s not easy, and I know personally how hard this can be for those who struggle with mental health. But we have to keep moving forward, we have to keep trying, and we have to prioritize taking care of mental health during the quarantine.
Stay Home, Stay Healthy, and Lets Flatten the Curve! 