How to support your mental wellbeing in a crisis
When we find ourselves in unexpected, unprecedented times, we may start to notice ourselves thinking, feeling or behaving in unusual ways. We might notice an increase in anxiety, expressed worry, over purchasing, over planning, withdrawing, sleeping less, and fixating. These can all be natural parts of going through change, big changes. However when you start to feel the balance tipping or loved ones around you point these things out to you, it's a good opportunity to pause, reflect and be honest about asking yourself if you need a little TLC right now.
In a way, I hope you do need some TLC. We all do. I hope you take some TLC for yourself and model that for others around you.
While there are benefits to staying informed and up to date, the volume and endless stream of news and information, can feel overwhelming and take a toll.
Consider the following in trying to re-balance while staying informed:
Evaluate your sources - anyone can publish information. Ask, is this really true? Is it a reputable source? Go to the source of truth.
Set news limits - consider setting boundaries to switch off. Start the day by reading, exercising, going outside, meditating, stretching, or hitting snooze! Don't roll over and hit the news straight away. Build in space. Similarly, before going to bed. Set a time limit and create distance between news and pillow time. Use your phone to help you by setting Do Not Disturb time, turn off notifications, try even deleting a social media app while you're feeling adventurous!
Good news - read good news stories too! Remember those?
Notice your conversations - come up with a list of topics and content that has nothing to do with the current crisis at hand. You might be surprised that people around you might be relieved, more relaxed and you could actually enjoy a laugh or two together.
Sieze the opportunity - find new hobbies and interests, or reignite old or forgotten ones. Especially if you find yourself with more time on your hands and are trying to avoid or have a break from screens and news. Read, craft, cook, invent, build, write, draw, dance, sing.
Take perspective - when crisis hits, it can't be ignored that often it merges into a time of reflection for many. We might find ourselves thinking about what matters to us most. We might find ourselves feeling an increased sense of gratitude. Or wanting to make some changes in our lives. Whatever it is, practice gentle noticing and self-compassion during this time. It can be a time to reflect on achievements and successes to date.
Have a laugh. Keep it light.
Take the awe challenge, and find something awe-full everyday for a week or a month. Reflect, talk to others about it, and notice how you feel.
Connect - make time to connect inwards to yourself, and outwards with those around you. Even if there are necessary directives to maintain social distancing, you can still find ways to stay socially connected. Call, message, video call, send snail mail, do a random act of kindness, pick a flower, write a message on the footpath with chalk, make a video message and share in your networks. You are not alone. We need each other. And no-one gets left behind.
And if you still feel overwhelmed and a bit consumed by stress, thoughts or worry, it's important to reach out, speak to someone and know where to turn to for help. This could be a friend, family member, neighbour, colleague, GP, or professional.
Finally, I'll leave you with some words of encouragement from someone far wiser than I:
"The wound is the place where the Light enters you." ~ Rumi
Take time to connect and see the bigger picture.