How to Keep Your Peace in Unchartered Waters

May is recognized as National Mental Health Awareness Month. And with the burdens and stress of the COVID-19 pandemic, some of us may be a little too aware of our mental health right now. From dealing with financial challenges and health concerns to educating the children and learning new recipes, we’re all trying to cope with this unprecedented time in our own ways.

Below are a few tips from a Coplin Health Systems’ behavioral health provider, Liz Cruger, MA, LPC to maintain peace of mind during these uncertain times.

1. Relaxation and fun are not a waste of time.

There are plenty of messages out there currently urging folks to use this ‘off-time’ wisely and be useful with their days (write a book, renovate your house, etc.) However, while some of those messages can be inspiring to some, others may find them overwhelming.

It’s important to remember that whether you choose to become the next great writer or binge-watch your favorite show for the third time, everyone has the right to deal with this stressful time in their own way.

Our only job right now is to take care of ourselves and each other by staying home and healthy — any more than that is optional.

And remember, it’s okay to allow yourself some compassion, and not get everything done.

2. Get your body moving. 

Stress and worry can affect both body and mind. However, one way to calm that storm is through activities that include right-left alternating body movements, or bilateral stimulation. Activities that include these right-left movements can reduce your physical stress levels, improve your ability to move away from stressful thoughts, and make problems seem further away and more manageable. These mechanisms can produce a calming effect on your body and brain. Bilateral stimulation activities can include walking, running, dancing, knitting and so much more.

These right-left movement activities are great for kids too, and many games already include these movements, like Hopscotch, Follow the Leader, or Simon Says.

3. Balance the good and the bad. 

We all have a mental balance scale where we weigh out the good and the bad. When we flood our brains with negative news stories and worries, it can feel like that’s all there is. Finding the gratitude (even when it’s hard), finding the helpers who are making a difference, and finding the good stories that make you smile will help make your mental scale feel more at balance.

Consider these tips when the day feels a bit too much and overwhelming. However, if you need someone to talk to, reach out to a Coplin Health System’s facility today.