Managing your mental health during COVID-19

While the first week or two of the pandemic may have felt like a challenge we all faced together, almost two years later, the realization that normal may never be quite what it was before coronavirus can be mentally exhausting. So, what can you do to help manage your mental health during COVID-19?

First, take care of you

There are some basic self-care steps you can take, such as:

• avoiding alcohol and drugs
• eating healthy, well-balanced meals
• exercising regularly
• getting plenty of sleep
• taking deep breaths, stretching or meditating regularly.

Disconnect: Take a break from news and social media

It’s one thing to want to keep up with a quickly evolving crisis. But, it can be unsettling to see and hear about the COVID-19 crisis and images of people in despair over and over throughout your day. It’s OK to occasionally unplug and take time to unwind. Instead, find another activity that you enjoy to reset your mind and mood. Take a walk, listen to music or an audiobook, play with your kids or your pet, work in your garden, anything that takes your mind away from crisis mode.

Connect: With friends and family

• Make a date for a walk, observing social distance, of course.
• Make a phone call, text or set up a virtual meet up.
• Many faith communities now offer livestreamed services and classes.
• Join an online exercise, book club or support group.
• Go “retro” and write a letter or send a card to a loved one with whom you’ve lost touch.

Get help for your mental health

If stress, worry and anxiety are getting in the way of doing your normal daily activities it may be time to seek help. Connect with someone you trust -- a family member, counselor or therapist, or your primary care provider. Allina Health resources include our 24-hour Mental Health and Addiction Connection line: 866-603-0016866-603-0016. If you’re a provider, connect to the Burnout Hotline at 763-684-7820763-684-7820. Calls will be returned within 1 business day.