By this point, we have all probably been faced with one challenge or another due to Covid-19. For students, some may feel they have been most impacted by this. With a rise in mental health issues, and some being forced to adopt new lifestyles, students are experiencing higher levels of anxiety and stress as they try to adapt to a new style of education. We thought it might be helpful to share a few of our recommendations for staying healthy, both mentally and physically during these uncertain times.
- Practice Gratitude
We talk about this often, but it’s important to stay grateful. “By honing in on the things you are grateful for, it’s likely you will see a positive change in your daily life. It’s a very simple and almost effortless habit that has been shown to lift mood, boost motivation, and even handle darker, or tough times, with a new perspective and sense of grace.”
If you haven’t already done so, start a gratitude journal! It’s a simple habit that can be done each morning that will help you set the tone for the day, as well as put things into perspective. Here are some great options:
https://nymag.com/strategist/article/best-gratitude-journals.html
- Stay Connected
You should absolutely continue to maintain friendships, even if you might have to communicate digitally or see each other while socially distancing. By maintaining your support network, you can avoid feelings of isolation. Invite friends and classmates to play a virtual game, or host a digital movie night!
- Get Enough Sleep
It’s important to maintain a healthy sleep schedule, even during Covid! Lack of sleep can make you tired, anxious and irritable. When your body lacks sleep, it’s not able to produce an adequate amount of serotonin, the hormone that helps regulate stress and depression.
Check out our article on establishing a healthy sleep schedule!
- Stay Active
Whether this be a form of exercise, stretching, or even picking up a new hobby, stay active! You might also want to look into Covid-friendly ways of volunteering. This might mean checking on an elderly neighbor, or finding a charity that is looking for virtual assistance. Here is a list of a few charities that are looking for virtual volunteers.
If you have any tips that help you stay healthy, either mentally, or physically, we’d love to hear them!