I’m noticing that a lot more people are dealing with a mental slump than before the new year.
Of course it’s understandable.
Even with the light that is the new vaccine, Covid is still dragging on and on.
It’s tough…
I won’t sugar-coat it, the Covid impacts can be tough…
…if you live alone
…if you’ve lost a loved one
…if you’re home schooling
…if you’ve lost work and income
…if you’re an extrovert
What can help?
I’m not a mental health expert, but as a coach I spend a lot of time supporting people in changing or opening up their mindset. I also observe and listen a lot.
I don’t have all the answers but I do want to make whatever difference I can. So I’m sharing a few things that have helped me and others that might also help you:
6 Ways to beat The Big Covid Slump
- Get some sun on your skin – it’s all too easy to realise you’ve been sitting down indoors all week. (or is it just me?!) I’m generally super-busy during the week but today I just stood in the garden eating an apple with the weak UK sun on my face for 10 minutes. I couldn’t believe how refreshed I felt from that simple act. Get out and get some vitamin D.
- Walking meetings – a colleague shared with me that she is having phone meetings where both she and the client are out walking in nature. I love that idea and intend to try that myself.
- When it all gets too much, take a pause – nothing has to be perfect and if you’re exhausted it’s ok to let go a bit. For some people with many responsibilities or children at home, that pause may necessarily have to be a quick mental one: just taking some deep breaths for a few moments can help stop feelings of overwhelm.
- Netflix therapy –it can help to watch something that either makes you laugh or helps you to get the tears out. I usually prefer the former and love to watch anything that makes me giggle (‘Parks & Recreation’ and ‘Community’ are great for me). It reminds me not to take everything so seriously.
- Remember this situation is temporary – it feels like Covid has been never-ending but even if it goes on for many more months, it won’t last forever. What can you do during this time that you can look back on and feel good about?
- Read ‘Positive News’ – there is still so much good in the world. Reading this lovely magazine always lifts my spirits.
What about you?
What are your coping tips?
Please do share in the comments below.
