We are flooded with guidelines to practice healthy hygiene via various
platforms including news channels or the internet. From social distancing to
washing hands thoroughly for twenty seconds, from respiratory hygiene to using
alcohol-based sanitiser after touching anything and the list is so on. Both
central and state governments are working in order to sanitize localities,
states and gradually the whole nation. But we are ignoring something very
important. Yes, that is our Mental Health.
The ongoing pandemic threat has caused:
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The basic mindset of humans to switch from “living” to “survival”, creating
a situation of existential crisis.
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Leading to increased health-related
anxiety.
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As a precaution one has to keep repeating behaviours (like washing hands or
sanitizing), which may lead to the development of
OCD
traits.
-
The Global economy to go down, hence decreasing job and financial security,
establishing a depressive trend globally.
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Fear of losing loved ones has triggered feelings of hopelessness and
despair.
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Quarantine is a form of social withdrawal and therefore induces feelings of
loneliness among people.
-
Those in abusive relationships/ bad marriages are stuck which can be
dangerous for their emotional as well as physical wellness.
- Increase in number of cases of domestic violence.
-
Social comparison via social networking is suffocating. It is good to spend
your free time doing something productive or learning a new skill. However,
it should come from within and not as a result of social pressure or buzz
around.
-
Internet addiction, binge-watching Netflix or Prime and gaming addiction.
The above psychological threats make, SANE-ITIZATION -the need of the hour.
Following are key points to follow in order to stay sane.
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Avoid over-exposure to information and restrict your news or media intake.
- Do not analyse the situation.
- Turn your quarantine into quality time with family.
- Follow a pre-set routine and avoid spoiling your sleep-wake cycle.
-
Keep checking with your family and friends living away via phone or video
call.
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Remind yourself staying still for a while (indoors) is much better than
becoming still forever (infected or dead).
- Engage in hobbies and self-care practices.
-
Limit your screen time even for entertainment purposes. Try to avoid
binge-watching shows or web series or playing online games for unaccounted
hours.
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Maintaining hygiene is quite essential. However, excess cleaning of self and
surroundings should be avoided.
Sane-itize and disinfect your mind from the virus.
Get Started With a Licensed Therapist
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