Mental health matters – tips to keep your mind game strong during self-isolation and quarantine
A month ago the thought of binge-watching Netflix, not having to wear pants and round-the-clock food deliveries would have sounded pretty great but now that it’s our reality for the foreseeable future at least, it feels somewhat different. Life as we know it has changed and while there is a lot of emphasis on taking care of your physical health, what of your mental health? During times of increased stress it’s more important than ever to look after your overall wellbeing, so we’ve compiled a list of little things that can have a big impact on your outlook to keep your mind game strong.
Forget fake news: Your social-media feeds are probably inundated with coronavirus-related content with everyone from your hairdresser to your former BFF from school weighing in with their opinion. The problem is that not all sources are verified, which means there is a lot of misinformation and fake news floating around that has one purpose – to scare. Constant bombardment of information can also contribute to feelings of anxiousness so put down the phone and step away from the computer. If you are seeking information, try to limit your sources to reputable organisations such as the ones listed here and be informed, but also try to maintain perspective. If you have someone on your feed that consistently makes you mad, embrace the unfollow button.
Be mindful: Whether you’re looking to calm your mind, manage anxiety or just get a better night’s sleep, meditation and mindfulness is one of the simplest (and cheapest) ways to recharge your emotional energy. There are loads of apps that can guide you through it but our pick is Calm – a psychologist-recommended program that promotes relaxation, clarity and improved mental health. It’s ideal for anyone new to meditation and offers guided sessions at varying lengths. Some other apps that promote mindfulness are Headspace and Stop, Breathe & Think.
Inhale, exhale: Okay, gyms are closed and you are largely restricted to inside activities, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get those endorphins flowing. Yoga is perfect for an at-home workout as you don’t require a lot to get started and it can do wonders for your mindset. Yoga with Adriene offers 500-plus free yoga videos and if you’re up for a challenge, you can commit to the 30-day yoga journey. Up for something a little more fast paced? How about a sweat sesh with Chris Hemsworth? For a limited time, you can enjoy a six-week trial of his health and fitness program Centrfit for free! In addition to home-based workouts with world-class trainers, you can also access a vast selection of easy, healthy meal plans and guided meditations.
Put down the burger: Speaking of meal plans, whilst its tempting to eat your entire supply of quarantine snacks in one sitting or fall into an Uber Eats-induced food coma daily, that won’t do your mental health any favours. As it turns out, nutrition and quality sleep are major contributing factors to overall wellbeing, so it’s time to look after yourself and eat yo’ greens. If you’re looking for some inspiration, Well Nourished offers a free catalogue of recipes that are quick, budget-friendly and tasty. Just quietly, booze can also exacerbate feelings of anxiety in some people so perhaps go easy on the quarantinis.
Virtual dates: Coffee catch-ups and Friday-arvo bevs at the pub may be off the cards for the moment but that just means you have to be clever with your planned activities. Organise a virtual date with your nearest and dearest via Google Hangout, which enables group video chatting through mobile and desktop apps. If you and your pals have been known to coordinate television-viewing schedules, Netflix Party synchronises video playback and adds group chat to your favourite Netflix shows so get ready to binge-watch Love Is Blind. It’s not quite Friday-arvo cocktails but it’s as close as we can get for now.
Do something different: If you’re stuck at home in self-isolation or quarantine, boredom can be a real downer. Fret not, friend – thanks to the internet we have access to a world of resources to help pass the time. Take a virtual stroll through The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York before popping over to The National Gallery in London or the Palace of Versailles. Love animals? Melbourne Zoo is bringing the zoo to you with live streams of lions, penguins, zebras, giraffes and snow leopards. Want to get a little dirty and learn a new skill? This at-home pottery kit from Crockd will do both of those things and if you’re keen to learn to cook from the best in the biz, check out Yummly’s YouTube channel. The world is your online oyster – you just have to be a little creative and have a decent data package.
This too shall pass: If you are struggling, remember that this isn’t forever. One day, the restaurants will open and there will be lines around the block. One day, we will walk into a shop to find the shelves fully stocked and we will never again take it for granted. We are all in this together but if you are experiencing feelings of anxiety or depression, seek help. Beyond Blue has a dedicated page on its forums about coping during the coronavirus outbreak but you can also talk to someone online at eheadspace or you can call 1800 650 890. beyondblue also runs a 24/7 phone hotline (1300 22 4636) as does Lifeline on 13 11 14. If your situation is an emergency, call triple zero.