During this very stressful time it is important to check our mental health temperatures. We are experiencing things that we have never experienced before and it can be easy to create a theme that is not really there. Because it is important to take care of ourselves and our loved ones. HHC Telehealth want to share with you somethings that may help you to cope in the era of this pandemic.
The World Health Organization or "WHO, together with national authorities, is monitoring the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on people’s mental health, and providing information and guidance to governments and the public. On 27 March, WHO European Region published an article on mental health and psychological resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic; highlighting the potential mental health impacts on children and the elderly." However, we all need to monitor and help keep our mental wellness intact.
For more information, http://www.euro.who.int/en/health-topics/health-emergencies/coronaviruscovid-19/news/news/2020/3/mental-health-and-psychological-resilienceduring-the-covid-19-pandemic.
Some Early Warning Signs
Here are some things to look out for, some signs that someone or you may be in trouble and need further assistance. Some resources are from the National Institute of Mental Health https://www.nimh.nih.gov/index.shtml and Mentalhealth.gov
Eating or sleeping too much or too little
· Pulling away from people and usual activities
· Having low or no energy
· Feeling numb or like nothing matters
· Having unexplained aches and pains
· Feeling helpless or hopeless
· Smoking, drinking, or using drugs more than usual
· Feeling unusually confused, forgetful, on edge, angry, upset, worried, or scared
· Yelling or fighting with family and friends
· Experiencing severe mood swings that cause problems in relationships
· Having persistent thoughts and memories you can't get out of your head
· Hearing voices or believing things that are not true
· Thinking of harming yourself or others
· Inability to perform daily tasks like taking care of your kids or getting to work or school
· Find more information at www.Mentalhealth.gov
Here are a few things to help combat this problem
We wanted to give you a few things that may help you in dealing with this problem. Continue to remind yourself that you are not alone and your feelings are real. Seek help if you need to as often as you need to. Here are some other tips:
Engaging your feelings, write down how you feel. Sometimes just writing things down helps to clear up the fog.
Calling up friends or family is one way to connect with others and let them know they are not alone. This can go a long way for both parties. Isolation is the enemy.
Playing games over the internet with trusted individuals or reading an audio book, such as one from the library online catalog can help engage the senses.
Meditation or yoga can give a very calming affect and help with sleep. It doesn't have to be perfect, just begin.
Learning something you have always wanted such as a new recipe or language. Either can go a long way and engage the mind and senses in new and exciting ways.
Take a break, stop talking about or listening to the the downside of the economy and the devastation of the virus. Not that you should ignore the reality of whats going on, but trying to have a positive mindset helps increase good endorphins.
Getting adequate sleep at least 8 hours a day. Start early by eating healthy foods, preventing dehydration. Getting plenty of fresh air and exercise. Even if you are indoors sit by an open window, do aerobics or lift minor weights or small can goods.
Remember if you are finding it hard to cope please don't hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider. If you are unable to connect with them we can help, make an appointment at www.hhctelehealth.com
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