During this season we are experiencing uncertain times. Many of us have had to adjust and adapt to a new normal. Although temporary, we are having to practice social distancing and self isolate. For those of us who thrive off of social interaction, this can be a significant challenge. But really, whether you consider yourself to be an introvert, extrovert or ambivert, the whole concept of social distancing and being isolated for extended periods of time can be an extreme challenge and can trigger toxic thoughts and emotions that can lead to depression.
I consider myself to be an ambivert. I enjoy social interaction, being outdoors and staying busy. Thing is, it drains my energy very quickly and I begin to feel burnt out. This is when I enjoy having my “me time” to relax and recharge, alone or with family. During this quarantine I have had to adjust. I’ve began working from home and spending 99% of my time, at home! This has been a major CHALLENGE for me, because I am ALWAYS on the go.. I prefer working out at the gym, working on my blog and sidehustle at coffee shops, I love spending my free time outdoors exploring.. So, now that I’ve had to been indoors for extended periods of time, I’ve had to COMBAT negative thoughts and feeling of depression, hard.
There have been moments when I want to curl up under the covers and hibernate. There have been days when I didn’t want to get out the bed, I just wanted to disappear. Sometimes, I’ve had thoughts of just running off and starting over.. stemming from thoughts of being forgotten, unnoticed or cared for… your thoughts can runaway from you if you’re not self-aware and proactive. I share this with you today, because there are 3 things that I have been doing to help combat depression and that I believe is NECESSARY to combating depression, especially during this quarantine season.
HERE ARE 3 THINGS YOU CAN DO TO COMBAT DEPRESSION DURING QUARANTINE
TIP #1
KEEP A ROUTINE. Make the adjustments that you need to make to your schedule, set a routine and stick with it! This will provide a sense of normalcy and stability and will lessen the shock of this new normal.
TIP #2
STAY SOCIAL. There are many ways to stay social while continuing to practice social distancing and self isolation. You can text or pick up the phone and call family and friends. You can utilize social media and video messaging. You can go for a walk around your apartment complex or neighborhood, smile and say hi, while staying 6 – 10ft apart from those you pass by. Small things like this, we may take for granted, but are beneficial to your overall mental and emotional health.
TIP #3
STAY ACTIVE AND GET SOME SUN. Keep your physical health a priority during this time and well, for always really! Keep your body moving; go for daily walks, jogs, hiking or whatever you enjoy. Spend at least 15 minutes a day outside, getting that natural Vitamin D from sunlight. And, makes sure to take your vitamins daily. Whether or not you stay active and get sunlight regularly will impact your mental and emotional well-being.
BONUS: FEED YOURSELF POSITIVITY. Be mindful of what you allow your self to digest during this time. Listen to positve, uplifing, motivational or educational content via podcasts, social media, YouTube, etc! Invest in yourself, by enhancing your knowledge and skills.
During this time, I want you to know that you my friend are not alone. We are all being impacted by this pandemic is some type of way. We are all having to adjust and adapt in these uncertain times. We may not know how long this will last, but know that you can get through this. Keep working on those big goals and dreams of yours and stay proactive; doing what you can to COMBAT depression.
Thanks for reading!
Share with someone who needs this word of encouragement today.
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