5 Ways To Improve Mental Health During A Pandemic…
Risk of infection aside, one of the biggest impacts that the pandemic is having on the general public is its effect on mental health at work.
The world is a very different place than it was six months ago, and whether we’re conscious of it or not, being in the midst of a pandemic creates all kinds of low-level (and not so low-level) anxiety.
With most of us now returning to work, which comes with its own challenges, your mental wellbeing matters more than ever.
We’ve put together a few of our top tips for safeguarding your mental health, so you can be at your best both at home and at work.
1. Know When To Switch Off
Our brains are only equipped to deal with a certain amount of input – overloading them with too much information can quickly lead to mental fatigue and low mood.
Stay up to date with current developments, but try to keep the news and social media you scroll through to a minimum.
Instead, occupy yourself by getting lost in a good book (avoiding anything dystopian for good measure).
2. Reconnect With Nature
It’s no coincidence that we have gone gardening-mad during this pandemic.
Not only is there something incredibly satisfying about growing your own food and flowers from seed, but it’s also a great mood-booster.
Studies have shown that spending time in nature can improve anxiety and depression.
3. Get Moving
Exercise is a great way to keep your mental health in check.
When we exercise, the body releases endorphins, resulting in that “feel-good factor” we all need right now.
Although gyms may still be off-limits, there’s plenty of ways to get moving, so why not try to fit in a run or brisk walk around your other commitments.
4. Power Your Body
Our mental wellbeing can be heavily influenced by our physical health, so it’s important to keep both in mind if you’re feeling low.
Along with exercising more, it’s worth considering whether you’re fueling yourself with the right nutrients and minerals.
Keep on top of your hydration, and amp up the fruit and vegetables in your diet.
5. Nurture Your Network
Human beings are social creatures, we need to connect.
Make a point of scheduling time purely to connect with people you care about.
This could be as simple as calling your relatives to check in on them, or texting a friend you haven’t heard from in a while.
So, with so much going on in the world, it is important that you keep an eye on your mental health at work or at home.
We’re all likely to have the odd low-mood day, but by making a conscious effort to safeguard our mental wellbeing during this pandemic, we can ensure that our bodies, and minds, stay healthy!
The AGS Support Services Team
