Protecting Your Mental Health During Uncertain Times
The situation we find ourselves in today has led to a drastic change in our sense of security.
We don’t know what to think, or how to make sense of these unfamiliar circumstances. Most of us have not been through something like this before and it’s unsettling and anxiety provoking.
Many of us are asking ourselves: Who will be affected? Will it be me or one of my loved ones? Will tests be available for all of us; and will the results be available early enough to take necessary action? Will we survive? Will our loved ones survive? How long will this last? What about our work? Our income? …The list goes on and on.
Glued to our TV sets, we become “breaking news” junkies, hoping that the next cycle of news will finally provide the enlightenment and reassurance that keeps eluding us.
This combination of uncertainty and danger is a recipe for severe angst. So how can we protect our mental health during these uncertain times? In a world that seems so out of control, here are 6 things we can control.
1. Limit your news intake and be careful what you read.
Limit the amount of time you spend reading or watching things which aren't making you feel better. Perhaps decide on a specific time to check in with the news. Decrease the number of times you check in, and the length of time you watch or listen.
2. Take breaks from social media and mute things which are triggering.
Mute key words which might be triggering on Twitter and unfollow or mute accounts. Mute social media groups and hide Facebook posts and feeds if you find them too overwhelming. Similar to the news, aloso consider creating specific times of the day for checking social media accounts.
3. Stay connected with people.
Agree to regular check-in times to help you feel connected to the people around you. Reach out and ask for what you need; offer support and encouragement to others.
4. Remember the things you’re grateful for.
Spending some time reconnecting with the things that are going well, the positive and beneficial parts of your life and relationships that you appreciate, can brighten some of the dark days.
5. Avoid burnout.
It is important to have down time. Spend some time in nature and in the sunlight wherever possible. Exercise, eat well and stay hydrated. Get sufficient sleep. Re-engage in the things that charge up your battery and give you a sense of strength and hope.
6. Seek professional help.
If you find that you need professional help, or if you have sought help in the past and found it beneficial, consider contacting one of our therapists at Roubicek and Thacker Counseling. In addition to our normal in-office appointments, we also offer online video and/or phone sessions. Sometimes reaching out and finding support makes all the difference.
Roubicek & Thacker Counseling is Fresno’s premier provider of individual, couples, family, and group therapy.
As an ‘essential service’ during the COVID-19 outbreak, we are offering in-person and online remote therapy sessions. We are committed to providing you with accessible, consistent and safe ways to obtain mental health services during this difficult time.
Contact us today to discuss your options.