{"id":6350,"date":"2020-05-25T08:31:37","date_gmt":"2020-05-25T08:31:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.coasit.org.au\/?p=6350"},"modified":"2020-05-25T08:43:45","modified_gmt":"2020-05-25T08:43:45","slug":"tips-for-improving-mental-health-during-covid-19","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.coasit.org.au\/tips-for-improving-mental-health-during-covid-19\/","title":{"rendered":"Tips for improving mental health during COVID-19"},"content":{"rendered":"[vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1\/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”]
Although we are moving in a positive direction, it is safe to say that it will be a while before life goes back to \u2018normal\u2019. As such, we have prepared some psychologist-approved tips for managing life as we face ongoing changes and challenges this year.<\/p>\n
Tip 1: Manage your emotions<\/strong> Tip 2: Establish a healthy routine<\/strong> Tip 3: Find a hobby<\/strong> Tip 4: Stay socially connected<\/strong> Tip 5: Be protective, but also proactive<\/strong> We hope these tips for coping during this challenging time were useful to you.<\/p>\n
\nIt\u2019s completely normal to feel overwhelmed by emotions such as worry and uncertainty, especially right now. One way to cope with negative emotions is to use a technique called mindfulness. Mindfulness focuses our attention towards the present moment, and away from the thoughts in our heads. Other helpful strategies for managing emotions include journaling, talking to a trusted friend or therapist, finding something to laugh about and deep breathing.<\/p>\n
\nRoutines help us to maintain balance in our lives. According to the Australian Psychological Society small habits such as waking up and sleeping at consistent times, eating nutritious meals, balancing work with hobbies, and practicing self-care all help us feel calmer and better. Simple activities such as a walk to the local park or taking a hot shower can also make a big difference.<\/p>\n
\nDuring the lockdown period, many of us started hobbies to distract ourselves and avoid boredom at home. Hobbies have proven benefits for relaxation, stress-reduction and improved mood. Popular hobbies during this period have included baking, puzzles, painting, reading, knitting and learning a language. In fact, our online Italian classes<\/a> at Co.As.It. have been perfect for those wanting to brush up on their language skills from home!<\/p>\n
\nResearch has found that prolonged loneliness has the same health risks as smoking fifteen cigarettes a day (forbes.com). Unfortunately, in this period of isolation, many people have experienced loneliness. As such, Co.As.It. has been proactive in providing a Companionship Telephone Check-In service, to assist our ageing community to remain socially connected. It may be a while before we can return to large gatherings and events. So in the meantime, we can make a difference by keeping in touch with our friends and family.<\/p>\n
\nIn the coming months, we will have to be conscious of protecting our health and the health of others. Being protective is an important way we can take responsibility, but it must be balanced with adapting to changes. As we adapt to changing rules, we can still maintain our safe practices of good hygiene, staying home if we feel unwell, and being mindful of others. The world is changing, but we\u2019re all in this together!<\/p>\n