How has self isolation, social distancing and/or working from home had an impact on your mental health? Have you given much thought, or any, to your mental health?

Here are a few things to consider to help you navigate during challenging times.

Change your perspective
You can’t control much of what is going around you and sometimes it can make one feel quite helpless. Take a moment to appreciate your physical health and the fact that you are able to make the choice to prevent the spread of COVID-19. You are safe, not stuck at home.

Filter your exposure
Now is a good time to evaluate what is driving your fear, anxiety and insecurity about the pandemic. Manage your social media accounts to limit the number of news articles, posts, videos and comments that you read and when you do, make sure that they are coming from reliable and accurate sources.

Routine helps
If you are working from home, it can be difficult for you to wind down now that the lines between your sanctuary and workplace are blurred. Where possible, try to find a designated workspace or allocate a specific time of the day for work only. Get rid of all distractions and set up your workstation where you can stay focused and once you are done with work, leave that space and enjoy your home!

Stay connected
There has been so many creative ways that people are communicating with each other. You can ring, text, video call, send an email or tag your friends and family in posts to let them know you are thinking of them. This is also a great time to reach out to your neighbours and community to let them know they are not alone.

Be kind to yourself
Life, as you know and are used to, is different. You are allowed to feel down, just remember that this feeling is temporary! Take this time as an opportunity to do what you’ve never had the time to do. Try a new hobby, join an online fitness class, read, cook, foster a furry friend – anything that brings you joy!