Dear Diary,

This pandemic weighs heavy. It has uprooted our normalcy. Whether you have already dealt with anxiety before or are experiencing it for the first time, it can be difficult to control. I’m no expert, but I have found some things that really help me. Here are 10 ways to care for your mental health while quarantined.

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1. WRITE

When you write things down, you’re able to slow your thoughts and problem solve with more control.

Some writing ideas include:

-Answer questions such as, what can I control? What am I afraid of?

-Write 5 things you are grateful for EVERY DAY. It can be anything from your favorite sweatpants to having food on the table.

-Brain dump! If you’re feeling overwhelmed, dump it all out on a piece of paper. You’ll feel so much better to have all the thoughts out of your head.

-Start a prayer journal. 

2. GET OUTSIDE

Our bodies are craving this! Go for a walk, sit on your porch, grill some burgers; anything to get some vitamin D (but never forget your sunscreen)!

3. WORKOUT

Doing any type of physical activity will produce endorphins, which helps relieve stress. It also just feels incredible to throw all of your anxiety into a difficult workout. There are so many Youtube videos and free workouts available online!

4. EAT HEALTHY

This is a tough one while we are at home, but I promise your mood will change immensely if you make small changes! A healthy diet helps the immune system, which is especially important right now. It also lowers blood pressure, relieving stress.

5. TALK TO SOMEONE

Whether it be a family member, spouse, best friend, or professional, it’s important to express your feelings during these unknown days. Take advantage of Telehealth therapy!

You can visit BetterHealth.com to get matched with a professional.

6. CHANGE YOUR ATTITUDE

YOU control your attitude and how you view this time. It takes a lot of self-reflection; but if you have a good attitude, you’ll be happier.

7. LIMIT SOCIAL MEDIA/NEWS

Just do it. Stop making yourself crazy.

8. SELF-CARE

Indulge in self-care. Take a bath, read a book, do a face mask, drink some tea; whatever makes you feel relaxed and loved.

9. ROUTINE

Building a routine can be super beneficial. It relieves the stress of the unknown, helps form healthy habits, improves productivity, and gives a sense of normalcy. Whether it be waking up and going to sleep at the same time every day or planning out every hour; having a routine will help you feel in control.

10. GIVE YOURSELF GRACE

Most importantly, give yourself grace. If somedays you can’t do anything but watch Netflix in your pajamas, it’s ok. This is a traumatic time that none of us have ever experienced before. Don’t feel pressured to pick up a new skill or be the most productive person. Everyone is handling this difficult time differently. And tomorrow is always a new day.

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Thanks so much for stopping by to read my not-so-secret diary!

Please stay healthy, stay HOME, and know I’m thinking of you.

Xx,

Beth