Social distancing and isolation has resulted in many of us feeling rather lonely, and alone in our thoughts. Being “cooped up” can feel like we are prisoners in our own homes. The idea that we may not leave the house except for essentials can be overwhelming and scary. We can feel detached from our social circles- whether that be our friends, family, work colleagues, or even just the daily interaction between us and different people.
We need to find ways to cope and look after our mental health during this time. Here are a few ways to help you cope:
- Acceptance
- Adapt and find alternatives
- Stay present and mindful
- Maintain a routine
- Get help
- Help others
Acceptance: Know that we are in this together. This is a scary time, not just for South Africans, but the world. Things are changing and it’s okay to feel uncertain, anxious, scared, angry, sad, or whatever else you are feeling. It’s okay! Recognize how you are feeling and accept that feeling. You are human. Your feelings are there for a reason. Don’t try to fight them, welcome them, accept them, and move forward.
Adapt and find alternatives: There are many things you will find that you are now unable to do. You aren’t able to walk your dog, go for a run, visit your mom, go to the gym. We’re in this lockdown for the protection of ourselves and others- we need to abide by these new limitations. But we can get creative and adapt to this new, temporary, way of life. Find some alternatives to maintain the things that you wish you could still do! Can’t go to gym? Try some YouTube exercises in your lounge that are apartment friendly, fun, and just as good of a workout! Can’t see your family in person? Video call them! Open your windows, let the fresh air in. Take the opportunity to read a book on your patio. Sky is the limit!
Stay present and mindful: It’s hard to not look to the future right now and worry about your kids, businesses, and life as we know it. But remember that you can handle whatever comes your way. Rather look at the moment that you are in and try to focus on what you can do to help yourself right here, right now. Try to identify what you need at present and use whatever means necessary to help you get that- meditation, journaling, getting creative, research, self-care. I’m not saying that you can’t plan for the future, but I am saying that catastrophic thoughts about what may or may not happen don’t serve you. You’ve got this!
Photo by Simon Migaj on Unsplash
Maintain a routine: When your daily life has been disrupted it’s difficult to stay on track with the things you would normally do. However, it’s important to maintain a level of normalcy. Practice good sleeping habits (don’t stay up until 2am just because you can!), wake up at a decent time, have your shower, get dressed (you can keep your slippers on!), and just do your day. Put some washing in the washer, declutter your house, have your regular eating times. Maintaining a routine can go a long way in keeping your mental space healthy.
Get help: This is an incredibly important point. If you feel like you are not coping, reach out and get some help! Psychologists and psychiatrists form part of an essential service and are still able to assist you with your mental health needs. Many that I know personally are offering virtual consultations so you don’t need to leave your home to see them. Your mental well being is so important at this time, so make sure you recognize your feelings and get the help that you need.
Help others: Helping others makes you feel good. There are lots of ways you can help others without having to go outside! Spring-clean your home and cupboards. Maybe you’ll find some items that you no longer want/need. You can donate those items to charity shops (like this one), charity organizations (like this one, or this one), or directly to those in need. You can also support businesses that are no-doubt hitting tough times by helping promote them on social media, leaving reviews, etc.
Stay safe and healthy during these times!
On the 23rd of March 2020, President Cyril Ramaphosa made the announcement that for 21 days South Africa would go on lockdown. This is in an effort to help reduce the number of COVID-19 cases in our country and to essentially “flatten the curve”. While I’m not here to talk about COVID-19 specifically, you can find official and correct information about it here, here, here, and here. The lockdown has meant different things to every single person, but in times like this it is important for all of us to look after our mental health.
If you have more questions about maintaining mental health during lockdown, then pop me an email at Info@DrLornaBlackwell.co.za or visit my website and make a booking online!
Disclaimer! These are just a few ideas to help you cope during times of social distancing and isolation. I am not a mental health expert, but value mental health greatly in all my patients and can see how this is affecting the public at large. Please see above for up-to-date and correct information about COVID-19.
Love Naturally 
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