With uncertainty about the future and gloom about the present, one's state of mind can take a hit during the Coronavirus quarantine. While the spotlight is currently on health and hygiene, let's not forget about mental health. Isolation and social-distancing are the present scenario, which can have vast effects like anxiety, restlessness, lethargy and stress. Many are experiencing these symptoms but may not even know it. Swirlster spoke to Dr. Venkatesh Babu G M, Consultant Psychiatry at Fortis Bangalore who also consults on Practo to share his expertise on mental health during this difficult time and the dos and don'ts one should follow.
(Also Read: How To Beat Cabin Fever When Isolating At Home During The Coronavirus Quarantine)
8 Reasons Why People Are Stressed During The Quarantine
Boredom
ADVERTISEMENTExtensive exposure to COVID-19 related information
Poor demarcation of work-life balance
Limitation on leisure activities
ADVERTISEMENTLimited options in one's usual routine
Fear of infection leading to compulsive cleaning rituals
ADVERTISEMENTUncertainty about future regarding major fronts like job, finances and family well-being
Lack of personal space
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Mental Health Dos and Don'ts To Follow During The Lockdown
(Also Read: If You Have Any Of These Symptoms, You Might Be Highly Stressed)
1. Acknowledge Distress
Allow yourself to acknowledge the distress that you are feeling in this time of turmoil.
2. Practice Mindfulness
Focus on today and the present instead of the future and what tomorrow holds.
3. Maintain Physical And Psychological hygiene.
You can do so by keeping your sleep cycle regular, grooming your face and body, eating nourishing food and following a healthy diet.
3. Practice Social Not Emotional Distancing
Continue to stay connected to your friends, family and loved ones via digital means like video calls.
4. Engage With Family
Use the time to partake in group activities with family members like indoor games, movie nights and cooking together on the weekends.
5. Divide Responsibly
Practice fair division of household responsibilities among family members so that everyone chips in.
6. Keep It Clear
Ensure there is transparent communication of job requirements, working hours and expectations with colleagues and bosses and mutually cooperate to make it a reality.
7. Stay Active
Keep sweating it out by building an indoor physical routine and engaging in hobbies you may not get to otherwise.
8. Set Boundaries
Clearly demarcate working and non-working hours and draw the lines between them clearly.
9. Avoid Panic
Nothing good comes from it. Breathe easy and stay in the present.
(Also Read: Anxiety In The Coronavirus Quarantine Is The New Normal. Tips To Deal With It)
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