COVID 19 and mental health

It has been a year since the first confirmed COVID 19 case in South Africa (the 5th of March 2020, to be exact) and it is safe to say that all of our lives have been affected. We have had to change the way we work, connect and socialize with others and we have had to adopt new protocols such as mask wearing, sanitizing and social distancing. But maybe, the most impactful change, has been the one on our mental health.

We have had to deal with anxiety associated with contracting the virus, possibly losing loved ones to COVID 19 or related illness. The stress and pressure felt from retrenchments, salary cuts or other financial uncertainties. Feelings of loneliness or isolation due to lockdown and heartache from missing family and friends.

This pandemic has shown us that we are incredibly resilient, and we will always find a way to adapt to our ever-changing environment. Here are 3 points to note that COVID 19 has taught us about mental health:

1. We all need someone to talk to

During this time we have learned the importance of having a support system. Being able to reach out and talk to someone about how we are feeling can provide a sense of comfort and safety, which is necessary in all the uncertainty. If you are feeling overwhelmed for whatever reason, try talking to a friend, family member or even a mental health professional.

2. We all need to take a break

The lockdown forced us all to stop our busy lives and stay put. In this time, we were able to spend more time at home with our loved ones and less time stuck in traffic or spending late hours at the office. We also could see that taking up a hobby or exercising could be beneficial for easing a cluttered mind. Why not continue these habits and make your mental health a priority?

3. We’re all in this together

COVID 19 did not leave any person unaffected. Each of us have in some way been hindered by this pandemic. It is important, in times of emotional distress or mental anguish, to remember that you are not alone and whatever you are feeling is completely valid.

Although there has been so much negativity surrounding COVID 19, let us try to look at the positives, let us look at what we are able to learn and take from this experience. If you feel that you would like additional support, reach out to us at Flourish Wellbeing, we are here to assist and guide you to a happier and healthier headspace.

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