There’s no way to sugar-coat it – lockdown hasn’t been fun. No matter who you are, being confined to your home for long periods of time takes a toll on each and every one of us. A lot has been made about being unable to get outside and exercise, with many citing the physical health implications of being stagnant at home.
Lockdown and Its Impact on Mental Health
Unfortunately, mental health often gets overlooked in favour of physical health because with mental health, you cannot immediately see a negative impact or if someone is suffering. Most physical symptoms are not easy to spot, and those suffering often go unnoticed for too long.
Who’s at risk?
A country-wide lockdown like the one we’re experiencing will affect each person differently, but can have greater implications for certain sets of people, such as:
- Anyone who has a history of depression, anxiety or other stress-related illnesses
- Those left extremely isolated, either due to their living circumstances or work environment
- Essential workers, both in the health and other sectors
- These groups of people are some of the most vulnerable, with the added stress of an extended lockdown potentially aggravating any underlying issues.
Here are a few tips on how to look after your mental health:
1 Maintain routine during lockdown
As boring as it sounds, a daily routine is extremely good at helping regulate stress levels and maintain a healthy mental equilibrium. With lockdown changing so many aspects of our lives, trying to keep some semblance of normalcy will take some of the stress out of coping.
Try to keep to your usual morning and evening routine, setting your alarm in the morning and going to bed on time.
2 Exercise, baby!
Getting your body moving releases natural, morale-boosting endorphins which are essential to our mental health. If you can, do 30 minutes of exercise per day. If you simply can’t fit that in, do your best to get your body moving at least three times per week.
Now that we can, double up exercise with getting outside and spending some time in the sun. Sunlight is important for both physical and mental health, even more now that we’re stuck in one place for such a long time.
3 Watch what you watch!
We’re all being flooded with hundreds of news stories, stats and figures about the world at the moment. It can be totally overwhelming and create serious anxiety issues.
Try to limit your media consumption. It’s too easy to get sucked down a rabbit hole, especially on your smartphone. If necessary, set specific times when you keep away from your phone and social media, and ensure that when you’re consuming any media, that it’s from a reliable, credible source!
4 Keep busy and connected in lockdown!
You might be surrounded by family during this lockdown, but that doesn’t mean you might not be alone. Try your best to stay connected to the people who are most important to you. Make time to contact your friends and loved ones, spending quality time with them as best you can.
Not only will that keep you busy and engaged, but it will also give you the chance to express yourself with people you trust.
5 Ask for help if you are suffering from depression or other mental health issues
There’s nothing wrong with needing help, especially during these trying times. If you’re struggling, don’t keep it bottled up inside.
Reach out to a family member or friend you trust and talk about how you’re feeling. Chances are they’re feeling similar emotions, and by simply engaging with one another, you’re helping lift the burden.
If you’re still struggling or don’t feel comfortable talking to a friend or family member. If you’re on any form of medication, keep taking it as prescribed.
GetSavvi Health members can use our Member Wellness Programme for counselling, support, awareness and advice on a range of topics.
Non-GetSavvi Health members can contact the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG). It is Africa's largest mental health support and advocacy group.
Join GetSavvi Health today for peace of mind!
One of the things that can create undue stress is financial worry. Knowing that your car is insured means that you won’t stress when out on the road driving, simply because you know that you’re covered.
The same should apply to your mental and physical health. If you’re not on some form of medical insurance, consider contacting GetSavvi Health for a free quote, and get peace of mind.
IMPORTANT NOTIFICATION
If you show any COVID-19 symptoms, please follow the Government’s advice and self-quarantine immediately to limit the spread of infection.
This means that you must limit your contact with other people as much as possible.
Click here for the Government’s guidelines.