Self Care and Mental Health Resources

In 2020, students across the country learned the same unfortunate lesson — how to adapt to drastic change. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, schools temporarily closed, creating limitations for students to access a central source of support, socialization, and academic and personal growth.

This drastic change paired with the transition to online learning increased anxiety and isolation among students and their family members. With the 24/7 nature of social media and news push notifications, self-care isn’t just important but necessary to maintain good mental health.

During times of change and uncertainty, everyone needs to take steps to maintain mental, emotional, and physical health while remaining connected to a larger sense of community.

Make yourself a priority by trying self-care tips recommended by mental health experts:

Maintain connections

Social distance doesn’t have to mean social isolation. Set up virtual get-togethers, phone calls, or group texts with friends or family members can significantly improve your mental health and help you feel less alone.

Take care of your body

Maintaining your physical health is a crucial factor in keeping your mind healthy. Eat a well-balanced and nutritious diet to boost your immune system and lower the effects of stress on the body. Adding exercise with a healthy diet will also help improve your mood.

Take a break from the news and social media

Know when to unplug before it starts affecting your mental health. Checking from time to time is okay, but continuously refreshing social media can increase feelings of fear and anxiety.

Go outdoors

Not getting enough sunlight can directly affect your mood. Going outdoors for at least an hour every day will allow you to get fresh air and improve your mental well-being.

Stick with a daily meditation practice

Meditation helps you practice mindfulness and develop relaxation techniques. Try some of the various free apps, podcasts, and YouTube videos to help you get started.

Give yourself permission to cry

At some point, you may feel sad, disheartened, or even hopeless. At heightened stress and anxiety, it’s common to develop burnout or experience an emotional breakdown. Give yourself permission to feel these emotions fully to release any pain.

Take deep breaths

Deep breathing techniques are proven to reduce anxiety and relieve stress. Taking deep breaths allows you to stay present at the moment and provides peace of mind.

Prioritize sleep

Getting enough sleep is a significant part of maintaining physical and mental health. Not only does sleep help boost the immune system, but it also helps lower the effects of stress on the body. Experts suggest that young adults get at least 7 hours of sleep each night to recharge their bodies and brain. Sleep deprivation can cause irritability, inability to focus, overreactions, increased stress, and make you more prone to illnesses.

Avoid self-medicating

Individuals struggling with mental illness are at a higher risk of developing drug or alcohol problems. To cope with symptoms, some young adults turn to drugs or alcohol to self-medicate. However, abusing substances can worsen and exacerbate mental health symptoms. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from a mental health professional to find healthy coping strategies and a treatment plan that works best for you.

Listen to music

One of the most convenient ways to relieve stress is to listen to music. Music has many therapeutic benefits; it helps lower anxiety and depression levels, ease muscle tension, and enhances your mood. Make a playlist with your favorite songs that help you de-stress and start your morning by playing them.

Find a hobby

Instead of using all of your free time to binge-watch a Netflix show, try to find a hobby. They provide a mental break from everyday stressors. Whether it’s journaling, drawing, playing an instrument, or something else you’re passionate about, please make time to add it into your daily routine.

Set goals

Setting goals helps define priorities and improves self-confidence and motivation. Write down the goals you want to set and how you want to accomplish them. This helps you stay organized and allows you to keep track of your progress towards achieving the goal.

Try online, remote therapy options

If you’re struggling, don’t be afraid to try online therapy. It’s essential to take care of your mental well-being not just in difficult circumstances but all the time. Ask your school counselor for more information about online therapy.