26 March 2020 | Kenya

Mental Health and Wellness During A Pandemic

During a pandemic, it's equally important to focus on both your physical as well as mental well-being. Below, you can find some information about how best to deal with anxiety during these testing times, as well as the benefits of self-care. 

Read these great articles to help you think through your mental wellness:

1. Be Your Own First Responder

2. Self-care in uncertain times

Coronavirus Anxiety Management

Be Your Own First Responder

 

Pandemics are fertile ground for those who suffer from anxiety. Here is an 8-step guide on how to manage anxiety: 

  1. If you are suffering from anxiety, stay away from the news and reading various social media posts.
  2. You should read and surround yourself with information that is uplifting and positive
  3. Find “grounders” amidst all the electric energy. These could be a person, place, object, activity, quote or even a mantra
  4. Think about what it is that you have control over
  5. Create a temporary new routine or ritual to help you feel safe
  6. Continue to prioritize your physical, mental, social and emotional well-being through routines and practices
  7. Take deep belly breaths (in through the nose for 3 seconds and out through the mouth for 5-7 seconds). Breathing out through the mouth for a longer period of time stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, which acts as the brakes to slow down anxiety.
  8. Remember that so many others may be suffering just as much, or even more than you. How can you stay grounded so you can ground others, and be a reducer, not a producer, of the viral anxiety and panic?

Think before you post or speak – will this create calm and chaos?

SELF-CARE FOR UNCERTAIN TIMES

When facing the unknown, self-care is more important than ever. There are many different ways that you can prioritize your sanity and overcome the various feelings that these times of uncertainty bring. Here are a few recommended ways to cope during such trying times

  •  Start each day with breathing exercises or meditation
  •  Reduce your exposure to media and social media
  •  Take time to read something inspirational
  •  Give yourself space to process the various emotions you may be feeling
  •  Create positive affirmations for when you feel ungrounded, insecure or anxious
  •  Connect with your loved ones
  •  Focus on something to be grateful for each day

For support contact:

Community Counselling Services (CCS)
0739 816 529 / 0733 786 040