The COVID-19 pandemic has been dragging on for what feels like forever at this point.
The length of time we have had to endure this for is enough to send us all into a stress-induced tailspin. Not to mention the added concern and confusion around each new variant that pops up. We would think during this time that our physical health would be our primary concern, but our mental health is just as important.
It is normal to feel anxiety, worry, and grief anytime you are diagnosed with a medical condition. The same is true if you test positive for COVID-19, especially where it is not predictable how each person will be affected. One thing however is for certain, the fact that you will need to isolate yourself until you recover.
Being sick is not only hard on your physical well-being but it also significantly impacts your mental health. Experiencing COVID-19 can trigger stress, anxiety, and depression which will slow down the recovery process. While isolating during this time, tending to your emotional health is key.
It is important to keep a watch out for common red flags that your mental health is not in a good place as you recover. If you notice any of the following, reach out to a mental health professional for help:
- Feelings of worthlessness
- Changes in appetite unrelated to your illness
- Trouble falling asleep or staying asleep
- Trouble concentrating on things
Recognizing changes in your mental health are important and there are ways that you can help keep anxiety and depression at bay while recovering from COVID-19.
Focus on what you know: You may not know how you got infected or how long it will take to recover, but your job right now is to take care of yourself and avoid the spread of infection to anyone else.
Reach out to your support network: Set up a regular check-in with your family and friends. This will help you feel connected and keep your mind off how you are feeling. Don’t be afraid to ask them for help either. If you need groceries, items from the pharmacy, or assistance caring for pets.
Eat well, stay hydrated and sleep: Try to eat nutritious and healthy food, not just the comfort food you are probably craving, and drink plenty of fluids. Couple this with getting plenty of rest to allow your body the best chance it has to fight off the illness.
Show yourself self-love: During isolation is a great time to focus on yourself. Keep busy with fun, relaxing activities. This can not only be a time of recovery but getting back to things you enjoy. Doing things you love, but rarely have the time for is a great way to distract yourself and to help the time pass. Read a book, do a puzzle, meditate or get excited about the daily Wordle. Find something that you enjoy and that is not difficult to focus on.
At Aloha Integrative Health, we are here to help. If you need more support, contact our offices today.