Pursuing Mental Health Wellness in the Era of Social Distancing and Self-Quarantine
During this challenging season of COVID-19, many of us are asked to self-quarantine and practice social distancing. The CDC recommends that we avoid close contact and distance ourselves from other people. Many local government bodies are requiring residents to self-quarantine and shelter-in-place. Yet as social creatures, we crave interactions and have the desire to leave our house. This new “normal” may create some angst and uncertainties. It is vital to promote mental health wellness during this season of self-isolation and reduced contact with the outside world. Here are seven things you can do to promote mental wellness.
Read a book: Reading can help us engage our minds, expand our knowledge, and deepen our curiosity. As a result of our busy lives, it is sometimes hard to read for pleasure. Take this slow-down to read. Visit your library website and access e-books through digital apps. Try Audible, Hoopla, or, Libby by Overdrive. Parents, your kids can also listen to audible stories via Audible for free.
Reach out to your contacts: Call, WhatsApp, Text, Skype, or Macro Polo your friends. Connect with an old friend during this time. A short phone call can bring back good memories of friendship and social interactions. Remember to reach out to those who may feel very lonely and struggling. We are in this together.
Write a letter: All you need is some paper or a postcard, a stamp, and an envelope with your favorite writing utensil. Write away. Share your stories or reflection with a close friend or loved one. It is heartwarming when one receives a letter. If you are bored and looking for something meaningful to do, take the time to craft a letter. You can also include a drawing if you are artistic.
Catch up on some television shows or movies: Thanks to Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video, and Disney +, we can watch many movies or shows at the reach of a remote control. Watch classic movies and televesion shows during this time as a family. Netflix recently introduced Netflix Party to allow you to watch streaming movies and shows with others.
Learn a new skill or work on a project: During this period of self-isolation, learn a new skill or work on a project. It could be cleaning the garage, reorganizing your closet or pantry, or creating an artistic masterpiece. Invest in yourself during this slow down. Try new cooking recipes or learn how to crochet.
Keep an exercise routine: Practice, Tai-Chi, yoga, or join an online exercise group. The YMCA has an online exercise program to support our health and well-being from home. Allowing your body and mind to stay present is key when staying isolated.
Manage your news intake: Finally, only seek information about current events and the COVID-19 from reliable sources. Reduce the amount of information you are receiving regarding current events, especially if the 24-7 news cycle produces stress and anxiety. The uncertainty of the pandemic and its repercussions on the economy and daily living is stressful. Manage what you watch and read regarding COVID-19 to maintain your own mental health.
Be safe and stay healthy. We are in this together.
Dr. Edward Ewe is a counselor educator, licensed professional counselor, and a clinical supervisor in Oregon and Washington. He counsels individuals, couples, and families in Bend, Oregon. His clinical interest is working with individuals dealing with grief and loss, premarital and marital counseling, individual counseling, and family therapy. He also supervises recently licensed mental health counselor associates.