COVID-19 and its impact can be overwhelming, adding stress to many individuals lives. In fact, 1 in 4 people will have some mental health concern due to the changes and stress the pandemic brings. The pandemic causes us to break our norm, while trying to identify a new norm. This has and may continue to change how we do our jobs and live out day-to-day activities. Below are some tips on how to care for your mental health, and signs to watch for mental health concerns.
Mental Health Care Tips:
- Create a new norm at work and home, and surround yourself with positive things and individuals that you enjoy. There are many unknowns in the world, but establishing a new routine can help you feel more at ease.
- Take care of yourself, eat health and exercise. Enjoy the season and take a walk.
- Take breaks from the news as it can be depressing. Find a good movie to enjoy with your family. Hobbies are the best recipe for peace of mind, they can take your everyday stresses and put them on the back burner for awhile.
- Embrace technology to connect with close family and friends by using social media or scheduling a video chat.
Coping with mental health problems is different for everyone and not everyone reacts or shows signs the same. However, keep an eye on your family and friends for the following common warning signs.
- Feeling helpless, sad, angry, irritable, hopeless, anxious or afraid.
- Trouble concentrating on everyday tasks
- Nausea, elevated blood pressure, extreme fatigue, and sleep and appetite disturbance
- Increase in alcohol or drug use
- Suicidal thoughts
If you or someone you know is experiencing the symptoms above, reach out to your primary care provider or mental health professional for help.
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A note to business owners or supervisors: Strive to be transparent with your employees. Ask how they are, open the door and visit, and make each employee feel like they are a part of something. This unknown and change is confusing, help employees try to understand the big picture and true impact this is having in our homes, workplaces and communities.
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Over the course of the year, we have stepped into and overcame many challenges. Challenges require allow us to learn, embrace new things, and grow at home and work. .
We can and will get through this challenge, as long as we continue to work together!
Article by: Nicole Paulsen, HR Director for Pipestone®