With everything going on in the world at the moment, you may start feeling overwhelmed due to all the new information you are reading, the long hours of work or school, and even caring for yourself. As a result, you may find it difficult to juggle everything together. It is particularly important to take a break for as long as you need and collect your thoughts as a time like this can be both mentally and emotionally draining. Remaining calm is always the best option.
It is completely normal and valid to experience negative feelings of stress and anxiety during times where everything is so uncertain. Here are some signs to watch for that indicate that it is time for you to take a minute and focus on yourself:
- Anxiety,
- Constant worry
- Short temper
- Sadness
- Feelings of helplessness
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Sleeplessness
What is a Self-Care Plan and Why Do I Need One?
A self-care plan is a means to help you stay on track. It works to save you when you start doubting yourself or feeling on edge. It is a reliable plan created by you – for you – that is filled with your favorite self-care activities and important reminders to ensure that you stay on track.
What can I do to practice self-care?
- Eat regularly. Eating gives you the energy you need to go about your daily routine, be able to concentrate, and be able to sleep better at night.
- Get some exercise in. Doing this can help reduce stress and anxiety and also improve sleeping habits.
- Prioritize sleep. Sleep is a critical part of restoring your mind and body, and it is a means for recharging for the next day.
- Pause. Use your self-care plan to help you calm yourself down when you feel your anxiety or stress levels getting high.
- Balance your mental intake. Always be careful not to overwhelm yourself with information or news regarding the pandemic
- Check in on yourself. Take some time during your day to just stop what you are doing to notice and realize what is going on inside and around you. Take everything with a light heart.
Whilst it is necessary to stay up to date about the current situation and health emergency, it is advised to limit your social media coverage around this issue and ensure that the sources you are reading are credible. Make sure to only read the information necessary to protect yourself and the people surrounding you.