Mental health is inherently important for the quality of life for ourselves and the lives we touch. With Covid-19 still posing a threat to our society, it is vital to understand ourselves so we can weather the pandemic.

A Mind Can Be A Dangerous Place

Those who have been impacted by the virus have been devasted. Unfortunately, the pandemic has uncovered deeper issues in our society. Consequently, drug and alcohol abuse, domestic violence, child abuse, and suicide are all on the rise. Why? Well to put it simply, people have mental attachments to their professional positions, to outside conditions, and their minds are chained to traditions. Furthermore, capitalism has us convinced we are what we own, how we look, the bags we carry, the cars we drive, and the people in our circles. Unfortunately, there is less value on our spiritual condition. A society clamoring for this and that, searching for anything to alter the way we feel and look — this gives us a false sense of reality. Suddenly, people are out of work, out of money, and alone with their thoughts. The mind becomes dangerous.

Generally, fear of the unknown and of economic insecurity causes stress and worry, exacerbating mental illnesses. Depression and anxiety start to manifest. Sleeping and eating patterns have suffered. Relationships have to be faced and examined. Indeed, the virus has forced us to slow down and examine our true intentions.

7 Tips For Mental Health During Covid-19

1. Deep internal work. We are a total of all our experiences, good or bad. Coupled with our deep-seated belief systems, we interpret how the world around us “should” operate. When our plans don’t come out as we planned, we create disharmony. So, find someone who can help you heal past traumas. Trauma does not go away. Eventually, it will resurface, no matter how hard you try to avoid the trauma and push it away. Do the work! Your mind will thank you for it.

2. Knowing who you are. When you know who you are you move differently. You move with purpose. Life is a journey. A series of ebbs and flows. We never arrive at a point of success but have to continuously learn, grow, and prosper. Every hurt, betrayal, failure, a moment of joy — a memory has a purpose. Thus, live in that truth and be yourself.

3. Meditation. Many attempt this practice for material success. Yes, it does work. Although, outward appearances are not inward reality at all. Now is the time to meditate for spiritual growth, contentment, a quiet mind, and the ability to withstand all of the unknowns in the world today. Meditation brings about a certain lightness to the dark. With this new found quietness of our minds, we are able to be in harmony with those around us. Inner peace is true success and complete liberation.

4. Live with intention. Every day, wake up and live with intention. Write down your plans for the day. Start first by opening the blinds. Sunlight does wonders for the mind and body. Take a shower, yes even if you are staying home. Drink a glass of lemon water with a dash of cayenne pepper, take your vitamins, reflect in gratitude for what you do have, there are many with much less. Finally, give your very best to everything you do throughout the day. Action will always get you moving in the right direction. 

5. Self-care. Self-care, usually advertised as massages, nails, a bath, fill in the blank. All those are great, but in reality, they are temporary fixes. We want sustainable, real, substantial care. Eating healthy, regular exercise, water, and adequate sleep. Make them a priority and watch your mind and body transform.

6. Community. Humans need connection. Social distancing and stay-at-home orders make isolation worse. A simple hug and handshake used to suffice even when times were rough. It may seem like we have endless Zoom meetings for work and school but we must adjust to make do with what we have. So, schedule a Zoom or Facetime with friends and family. Reach out to an old friend, make new ones in an online group with similar interests. Make it fun, send a hug through the screen. Remember, live with intention. 

7. Give back. When all else fails, do something for someone else. The best way to get out of your own thoughts and feelings is to be useful to another human being. Search for an organization to volunteer with. Speak out and take action against injustices in your community. When your main focus is you, you will always find a problem.

These practices take work, a strong discipline and a genuine willingness to change, but the rewards are priceless. A strong mind, body, and spirit are your reward.