MOOD SWINGS
The world has come to a standstill due to the recent outbreak of the Coronavirus. Lockdown has been initiated by the authorities as a necessary procedure to minimize the spread of this virus and social distancing has become the norm. In these difficult times, it is very common to experience a strain on your mental health. It is very obvious to have mood swings. The psychological impact of quarantine can be great, resulting in a range of mental health concerns from anxiety and anger to sleep disturbances, low mood, irritability to depression and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Fear and anxiety about a pandemic can be very overwhelming and may bring out strong emotions. Coping with these emotions in a positive and healthy manner is very important for yourself as well as the people around you. Remember that fear is even more contagious than the virus. Panicking about it will elevate your stress and anxiety levels which may also affect the people around you.
Ways to Cope up with stress
There are many ways in which you can cope with stress or support your loved ones cope in these difficult times. Make sure that you are taking good care of your body. Exercise regularly, eat healthily and take this opportunity to catch up on your sleep. Try to keep in a good mood as regularly as possible. Do things that give you joy and indulge yourself.
Even if you are home with other family members, the sense of isolation can be powerful. Connect with others. Talk to your family, your friends or your loved ones and express your feelings. Reassure and support each other and focus on building a bubble of positivity around you. Talking to others who are going through the same thing can provide a sense of community. One of the most important things to keep in mind is that you must follow your normal routine. This will help you to fell the most relaxed. Even though schools, colleges, offices are closed; try to work from home and create a schedule for learning, working or having fun. Wake up early, get dressed and get busy.
Even though keeping up to date with whatever that has been happening around the world is very important, make sure to take a break from listening to the news or going onto social media. Repeated exposure to depressing news about a pandemic can be very upsetting. Instead, try reading a book or watching a movie to take your mind off of things.
Physically isolating yourself and practicing social distancing is very important, but make sure to not create a mental distance from your loved ones. Stay in contact and stay safe.
We, at Patna Diaries, would love to hear your story on how you are coping up with the stress. Please feel free to write down your thoughts and experience in the comment section below.
