Mental health. It's like an elephant in the room that people don't want to acknowledge. Or, if they do they downplay how depression and anxiety can take a toll on a person's quality of life. If someone has already been diagnosed with depression and/or anxiety, just imagine how the pandemic, the civil unrest, political pressure and economic downturn weighs on their hearts.
Before the pandemic, about 25% of American adults reported experiencing depressed moods. However, once the pandemic hit the nation, that number has increased two fold - 50% of Americans are experiencing bouts of depression and/or anxiety.
What can you do? What can someone do to try to alleviate those dark feelings and try to mend their mental well-being?
Here are five things that, we think, may help.
1. Relocate
If you live in a densely populated area, it can be rough trying to manage your day to day and still adhere to the state guidelines. It can be even harder if you have anxiety and worry that someone will get you sick all because they didn't want to wear a mask or keep their distance. HomeLight released their 2020 Q2 report, and in it, 37% of agents said their clients are moving out of the city and are heading to the suburbs. If you have the means, moving to the suburbs where there are fewer people very well may give you some peace of mind
2. Limit negative media
An important part of self-care is reducing how much negativity you surround yourself with. We know, it's hard not to become engrossed in the news. After all, it's great to stay informed, especially now. However, too much media can be harmful to your mental health - especially if there are rarely any good news stories. Stay away from social media, don't read every news article you can about any upsetting topics, and try to limit how much news you watch on television.
3. Stay focused on what makes you happy
You know the saying, "Fake it 'til you make it?" That goes for mental health too. Whenever you begin to feel down, try doing something you enjoy. Maybe you could take your dog for a walk in the park. Maybe it's working on that 5,000 piece puzzle. Or, you could even binge watch your favorite television series. Whatever you decide to do, focus on the positive feelings you get whilst doing them. You may be surprised how that little bit of positivity lifts your spirits.
4. Stay connected with loved ones - even from a distance
Social distancing and staying in your house can feel very confining. It's easy for that seclusion to get the best of you and feel like you're truly alone. You have to remember that you aren't alone. Reach out to your loved ones, even if it's through text messaging. Even the smallest of conversations can help boost your mood. If you have a friend who makes you laugh, ask them to be your lifeline. If you have a family member who seems to always know what to say, go to them for words of encouragement.
5. Look after your physical well-being too
Sometimes, all you really need is a bit of physical activity to help you begin to feel more like yourself. Even if you aren't big on working out, spend some time outside, soaking up the sun. A vitamin D deficiency plays a role in depression and the sun's rays are a great way to increase your vitamin D levels, thus improving your mood.
Even during the best of times, people don't pay much attention to their mental health. However, the pandemic is exasperbating the number of people who are struggling with depression and/or anxiety. We hope that these tips will help you find some peace of mind.
Always remember, if you need someone to talk to, call the NAMI (National Association on Mental Health) Helpline: 1-800-950-NAMI or text "NAMI" to 741741.
