While the COVID-19 pandemic may be over, our mental health may have suffered during that time. Many lives were lost during the pandemic, businesses are laying off employees at alarming frequencies, and people missed in-person connections that helped deepen relationships, to name a few issues the pandemic has brought. Like any difficult time in life, however, there are some things you can do to maintain and improve your mental health.
1. Limit your news exposure
There is a fine line between being informed and causing more stress in your life. It’s a good idea to stay updated with what’s going on, but constant exposure to problems arising in the world (like COVID-19) can increase stress and wreak havoc on your mental health.
News is often sensationalistic, which can give you a more negative impression of the world than is actually accurate. In addition to listening to reliable resources like the CDC, make sure you unplug so you don’t become overwhelmed.
2. Exercise
There are plenty of reasons to exercise, and one of them is to maintain good mental health. Exercises can increase positive feelings and reduce feelings of depression. Carve out a room inside your house for yoga, take a jog outside—make your space your own mini gym.
3. Stay connected
You may have fallen short on social interactions during the pandemic, but it’s never too late to reforge those connections! Set times to hang out with your friends, host a Zoom call if someone is far away, or even just shoot a friend a text to see how they’re doing. Spending time with friends is great for your mental health and reminds the people in your life you’re there for them (and vice versa).
4. Journal
Journaling can be beneficial to your mental health, as it gives you a safe, private outlet to express your feelings and can help you make sense of your emotions. You don’t have to be a writer to journal. Simply jot down your feelings, even if it feels mundane. Observing your thoughts is important to noticing patterns of thinking you can change, or realizing you may need help.
5. Go outside
Like plants, we need to be outside and in the sun to maintain good health. Simply go outside for a walk or run, or sit in nature by yourself. Being outside has loads of mental health benefits, and it’s nice to have a change of scenery to avoid a monotonous routine.
6. Eat healthily.
There’s a connection between eating healthy foods and maintaining good mental health. Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are among some of the best foods to eat that not only boost your immune system, but your mood. And you don’t have to break your wallet to eat healthy, either—canned veggies work just as well as fresh ones
7. Partake in some hobbies.
It can be hard to remember what we enjoy in our free time when we’re so focused on other aspects of our life. But it’s important to remember what brings you joy, as this is crucial to good mental health. Reconnect with an old hobby you enjoyed as a kid, or try a new one. You might find something that becomes your new favorite pastime!
8. Ask for help.
As important as it is to maintain your own mental health, you can’t do it all alone. Sometimes there are problems you need help with, and that’s perfectly fine. There is no shame in asking for help and getting help as soon as you notice problems is a great way to stop them from escalating. If you’re feeling off, check out resources for mental health to aid in your self-help.
Managing your mental health is a lifelong process. There will be good days and bad days, moments that you triumph and moments that you struggle, and that’s okay. These tips are not guaranteed to stop you from having mental health issues, but they do mean you are equipped with the tools to handle them better.
Originally published on HerCampus
Featured image via Chad Madden on Unsplash
