MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS

“Mental health isn’t an option, it’s a priority.” Physical health is essential

and the same goes with mental health. According to World Health
Organization, Mental Health plays a vital role in our life. Mental Health is a
condition of welfare in which an individual knows his or her own capacities,
can cope with stress, can work reasonably, and is able to contribute to his
or her own society.

Globally, mental health is being challenged like never before by COVID-19.

While there are many uncertainties about how the pandemic will progress,
what is clear is the impact on the mental health and well-being of those
most affected will be significant.

The daily counts of mental health issues tell the public story of the
Coronavirus effect. The new reality of social distancing, wearing of face
masks and other safety measures is testing everyone, and those living with
mental illness may find this time even more challenging if the support
system they rely on is not in place. As the Coronavirus Pandemic has
unfolded across the world, ordinary life has been put on pause. Lockdowns,
travel restrictions, social distancing, school and work closings have created
a notion of social isolation previously unseen across the globe. In addition,
fears about finances and food shortages have placed additional stressors
on an already anxious and sensitized population. However, this pandemic
and the associated changes including serious financial implications for
many households can have profound consequences for our mental health.
Furthermore, traumatic and stressful experiences put individuals at greater
risk for not only poor physical health but poor mental health outcomes.
Rapid social change, work burnout, social isolation, unhealthy lifestyle, and
physical ill-health are some factors associated with poor mental health as
stated by the World Health Organization. You may notice that feeling of
being more edgy, irritable or angry; helpless; nervous or anxious; hopeless,
sad or depressed. In this new normal, practicing social distancing may
leave you a feeling of loneliness and isolation. Also, if you are at home, you
may have less patience than before.

It is important that as a human being, we learn how to protect our mental

health during this ever-changing situation while also following the
guidelines set by the health authorities to protect our physical heath.

Here are some tips to overcome these Metal Health Issues:

Tip 1
It is normal to feel anxious and fearful in this time of pandemic. Talking and
expressing about your feelings to someone will lessen the distress. If it still
doesn’t help you, better to look for a psychologist for a professional
consultation and recommendation.

Tip 2
Choose and set a restricted time each day when you will check COVID 19
updates. Constantly listening to news about Coronavirus can make you
more anxious. Instead, create a daily schedule for you and your family and
make space for activities and conversations that have nothing to do with
the outbreak.
Tip 3
Protecting yourselves and your loved ones is simple:
 Wash your hands always. Remember, do it for about 20 seconds.
 Cough and sneeze in your bent elbows. Wear your face masks and
face shields as much as possible when going out.
 Do not touch your nose, eyes, and mouth.
 Limit gatherings and time spent in places that are crowded. In this
time of pandemic, most of our meetings are now online. Be sure to
download some of the platforms that can be used and downloaded
for free.
 Avoid close contact with anyone who is sick. We do not want to
spread the virus. Stay at home if possible.
 Disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

Tip 4
Frontline and other essential workers including you, teachers, face long
hours, heavy work loads and potential stigma due to COVID 19. Neglect,
this can lead to fatigue, mental distress and burnout. Instead, let’s support
our essential workers and thank them for their service. Take note, be kind
to yourself and others. Always think positive. I know, you got this!

Tip 5
Feeling down may lead you to quit from your routine. This is a common
result to trauma. Restore your mental health by trying to do the activities
that you enjoy. Hello, Plantitos and Plantitas. You can also have “Netflix
and Chill”. As much as possible, activities that can be done at home.
Tip 6
Despite the challenges we are all facing due to COVID 19, we can still find
purpose of our lives and be supportive of one another. When encountered
with a hard situation, focus on what you can change, bear matters that are
beyond your control, and always aim to live by your values. Always prays.
God has the answer for everything. Let us trust in Him.

It can be difficult to experience of what is going on today. Give yourself a

time to daydream about the future and what is on the horizon. Remember
that this is temporary, and things will return to normal. “We are all in this
together. We will get through this, together”.