Meditation & Therapy Resources For Managing Your Mental Health Under Quarantine

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We’ve all been spending more time at home than ever since COVID-19 broke out, and with that comes a fleet of mental health challenges. Don’t let the additional time we’re spending inside impact your health. Unbeknownst to many, social isolation may increase your risk of receiving many health conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, cancer, and having a stroke. Why? Short periods of isolation increase anxiety or depression without just a few days. In other words, social isolation can make us go stir-crazy. Our relationships with family and friends help us cope with stress, and we’re being deprived out of seeing those we love.

Even further, those who have never had a history of mental health issues in their life are going on to feel these effects. Many are having difficulty sleeping, finding a normal routine, and concentrating on tasks and life management. Those with pre-existing mental health conditions are having their symptoms exacerbated. For example, new requirements for washing hands and not touching the face may cause repetitive cleaning behaviors for those with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder to spiral out of control. This can also distract those with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder from other necessary tasks.

Those who suffered from anxiety before being quarantined due to the Coronavirus are feeling more uncertain, out of control, and are just waiting for new developments to come by.

Ways to cope

While we work from home waiting for the pandemic to be lifted, there are many ways you can cope. Exercise is really important. It’s safe to go for a stroll through a park or your neighborhood, just be sure to leave your phone at home to prevent contracting and spreading the virus. This is also a great way to unplug from the digital realm we’ve been stuck inside of. If going outside brings you just as much stress as staying indoors does, workout to an exercise video on YouTube. Doing so can alleviate the cortisol levels in your brain stressing you out during this time period.

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You can also turn to tech to help you manage your mental health. For example, MoodKit is a cognitive behavior therapy app built on AI software that can track your mood, activities, thoughts, diet, and social engagement. For help with meditation, Headspace and Calm provided guided programs you can unlock by subscribing to a monthly plan.

You can also receive digital therapy help through video or text. Apps like Talkspace, LARKR, and Brightside can help you with this. Teletherapy in addition to traditional insurance may also be provided by your job. Contact your Human Resource’s department to see if you qualify for any mental health services. Additionally, many organizations are stepping in to help those affected by the pandemic. The Anxiety and Depression Association of America has provided tips and tools for managing mental health during the crisis.

The USA is now the #1 of all COVID-19 cases reported. Please be safe, stay indoors as much as possible, and take care of your mental health above all. The infographic below provides a lot more information on ways to manage your mental health under a quarantine.