Caring for your mental health

We want you to take care of your mental health while practicing physical distancing during the COVID-19 Pandemic; so we’ve compiled some ways to help you stay emotionally and mentally healthy over this period.

Quarantine and self-isolation can negatively impact and increase symptoms of depression and anxiety and the mental health implications of this unprecedented situation will impact individuals differently.  With growing concern surrounding coronavirus it’s important to keep as much of a normal routine as possible. Finding ways to maintain your normal routine is essential to reducing stress and potential anxious thoughts that may appear.

Filter News and Social Media

Constant news, opinions, and memes about the pandemic can feel relentless and may exacerbate existing mental health problems. Seek trusted information, such as the Government of Canada Website.

Speak Openly About How You’re Feeling

We encourage you to talk about your feelings with others, whether that be in a chat room, while using Zoom or Facetime or calling our Thrive Walk-In Clinic– there are various avenues of support and helplines available.

Fuel Your Body and Your Mind

A well-nourished body is better able to manage stress. Ensure your diet includes whole grains, vegetables (particularly of the leafy green variety), fruit, berries, nuts, seeds, and olive oil will help your body, help your mind.

Sleep

A night of good quality sleep is a form of overnight therapy and increases the chance of handling strong emotions effectively. Try to wake up and go to bed at the same time every day. Achieving eight hours of sleep, taking a hot bath, and minimizing screen time two hours before bed.

Exercise

Clinical studies show that regular exercise produces chemicals, such as dopamine and serotonin, which are as effective as antidepressant medication for treating milder depression. It’s important to create a daily exercise routine between 30-40 minutes at home.

This blog post was created as part of our response to the Covid-19 pandemic. For more information about our response, including changes to our service delivery and other resources, please visit: https://familyserviceregina.com/covid19-a-message-from-the-ceo/