Though taking care of our physical health has taken the forefront over the past year, it is equally important to make sure that we look after our mental health throughout this time too. Therefore, here are a few tips on how to look after our mental health when working during a pandemic.
1. Stay connected with others even when working from home
Throughout the pandemic, many people have had to work from home at least some of the time. Flexible working during the pandemic has therefore meant that people working during the pandemic might not have had anyone to regularly talk to.
However, maintaining healthy relationships with friends, family, and co-workers is extremely important for our mental wellbeing. Even if the only way that you can talk to one another is over the phone, video call, social media, or through instant messaging, stay connected with others whilst working from home.
2. Get as much natural light as possible
Results of several studies suggest that getting lots of natural light, particularly in the morning, can significantly improve mental health outcomes such as depression, agitation, and seasonal affective disorder.
Try and sit by a window or set up your home office space somewhere where you get lots of sunshine and access to fresh air. You could also change rooms during the day to make sure you get maximum natural light. When it eventually gets dark, ensure that your living space is well lit, so you don’t end up straining your eyes.
3. Take time to relax
The year of the pandemic has been full of uncertainty, so it is only natural that you might be feeling worried or anxious. However, it is important that you make sure you take the time to relax, ease your mind, and improve your wellbeing.
This might be anything from running a nice hot bath and pampering yourself, or trying mindful breathing, relaxation techniques, or even yoga. Only you know what works best for you.
4. Don’t stay glued to the news
Though it can be tempting to keep up to date with current events by watching the news and scrolling through social media, this is not always helpful, especially if it becomes obsessive or you use untrustworthy sources.
5. Make sure you do things you enjoy
Work can be stressful even under ‘normal’ circumstances, but chances are working during the pandemic has left you more stressed out than ever. This can lead you to feel bored, frustrated, and low, neglecting the things you enjoy doing.
However, make an effort to do something you enjoy once you have finished work so that you can decompress and refuel your mental wellbeing after a hard day.
6. Get good sleep
It is scientifically proven that there is a close relationship between sleep and mental health. The quality and quantity of our sleep can make a big difference to how we feel.
Even if you have to wake up early for work, it is important to maintain a regular sleeping pattern, good sleep practices, and healthy sleep hygiene so that your body can recover ready for the next day.
And there you have it – 6 ways that you can look after your mental health whilst working during the pandemic.
