Highly contagious disease Coronavirus has left the world standstill. The disease has confined people to their homes and restricted their day to day activities. Infectious diseases such as COVID-19 cannot just affect your physical well being but can affect your mental health as well. During testing times like these, it is important to stay informed and take necessary steps to support and manage our physical as well as mental wellbeing.

Most of us have been adhering to the COVID-19 protocol by wearing masks, ensuring health hygiene, maintaining social distance to protect ourselves from potential threats. Even the governments of many countries announced “lockdown” to contain the spread of the virus. But what about Mental Health? The pandemic is taking a toll on people’s mental health as well. Many people especially the ones with a history of mental illness are having a hard time dealing with the stress and anxiety caused by this pandemic situation. Doctors and healthcare institutes have reported a spurt in mental illness cases, especially depression, anxiety, OCD, Bipolar etc. They are also facing sleep disorders.

While some patients were stressed due to the ongoing situation, others faced trouble keeping up to their restricted lifestyle. Some patients longed to meet their loved ones. Most people reported facing issues like mood swings, insomnia, negative thoughts, and irritability.

Here are some tips to help you cope with mental stress and illness caused by the Coronavirus pandemic:

Yoga and meditation

When it comes to mental health, meditation is one of the best and most effective ways to rejuvenate your mind and body. Meditation is good for your mental well being as well as your physical fitness. So inhale positivity and exhale all the stress.
Get enough sleep

Sleep plays a crucial role in our mental well being. If a person is not well-rested, they tend to get moody and irritated. So prepare a sleeping schedule and stick to it, even if you’re staying at home.
Eat healthy
Avoid excessive intake of caffeine as it can aggravate anxiety. Inculcate a well-balanced diet to boost your immunity.

Limit screen time

Be it for work, or for entertainment, people have started to use phones, laptops more than ever amid the lockdown. Limit your screen time to give your mind and eyes the much-needed rest. Turn off electronic devices after every few hours, including 30 minutes before bedtime.
Get a hobby
The restricted sedentary lifestyle caused by the lockdown is also a huge reason behind stress. Use this time and pick up a new hobby. It will ensure that you are occupied instead of spending it in over thinking or feeling stressed. One can even learn a new language online, get involved in DIY activities, or just become a Masterchef of their own kitchen.
Talk it out
Stay connected with your near and dear ones over the phone/ video calls. Talk to your close ones that make you feel better.

The perils of mental illness go deeper than one might know. If things get overwhelming for you, you should talk to a trained psychologist and seek medical help. Talking about things that make you feel stressed, or trigger unhealthy thoughts will help the psychologist understand your situation and help you get through these tough times.