Maintaining Mental Wellness
EMOTIONALLY CONNECTED
These past few weeks we have all experienced a change to our lives that we had never anticipated. Socially distancing from our colleagues, extended family and our social supports has been a huge adjustment. While this continues to be necessary to keep us healthy we also need time
to take care of ourselves and in turn take care of our children and loved ones.
Families are feeling stressed, anxious and overwhelmed. All this together time at home,
balancing work, home schooling and family obligations can put everyone on edge.
Check in with your child to see if they are showing signs of anxiety, age regression or anger.
Here are some suggestions for maintaining our mental wellness:
Practice gratitude
. Pray. Read inspirational quotes.
Stay connected.
Phone, FaceTime, Zoom. We have the technology to stay connected. It may brighten someone’s day to hear from you.
Breathe to reduce anxiety.
Triangle breath: Inhale through your mouth for a count of 4. Hold for a count of 4. Exhale through your nose for a count of 4.
Reduce screen time as much as possible.
Schedule a time when your child is not around to catch up on the news. Early morning and late at night are good times. The children do not need to stay informed of any statistics or any daily updates. They just need to know that they are safe and staying home for now will keep everyone healthy.
Have a schedule.
Schedule in frequent breaks and playtime.
Take time to get out in nature everyday.
Yes, even
rainy
days. It can help you relax, refuel and gives you a break from devices.
Listen to music.
Music has a positive effect on your physical and mental health, helping with anxiety and depression. Sing. Dance.
Pet therapy.
Family pets help people deal with stress and anxiety. They also need walks and play time, which helps us too.
Bake.
Get the flour out and bake something. Baking is creative. It helps to relieve stress, improves concentration and increases self-confidence.
Continue to help and support oth
ers. Check in on a neighbor.
Humor, comedy, jokes.
Laughter is the best medicine! Share a daily joke with your family.
While we need to maintain social distancing outside the home our immediate family may need
extra hugs
and reassurance
that all is well inside the home. Remember, we are always here for you. Lastly, this is temporary. We look forward to the day when we can resume our ‘normal’ lives.
*****************
We encourage you to examine the following resources available
to support your own mental health and well-being:
www.mass.gov/
info-details/maintaining emotional health & wellbeing during the COVID-19 outbreak
Stay healthy! All the best,
Rose Trogele RN.
Florence Richardson RN.