For some people, the pandemic has taken a toll on their lives financially, and they may worry about how they’re going to feed their families and keep their homes. At work, you may have a slew of new protocols to follow. You may also worry about your health and well-being and a variety of other stressors. If it all seems overwhelming, it may be time to consider therapy and a time to take steps to reduce anxiety.
Few Times When You Don’t Feel Stressed
Stress is a normal part of life. This emotion can help with cognitive function at times. However, when your body is constantly under attack from stress, this isn’t the case. The continuous and overwhelming stress levels can take a toll on you both physically and mentally.
At this point, you may need to think about therapy to help you cope with the stress and improve your overall health and well-being.
Not Sleeping Enough
The Sleep Foundation recommends adults between 18 and 64 get at least seven to nine hours of sleep each night, as a general rule. Keep in mind that sleep is necessary for your brain to function optimally. You’re more likely to make mistakes if you’re not sleeping enough. Additionally, your immune system depends on you sleeping regularly, and so does your mental health.
When you don’t get enough sleep, it causes a vicious mental health cycle. You may not get enough sleep due to stress. Then, the decrease in sleep will heighten your stress.
Not Taking Time for Yourself
When you’re preoccupied with worrying about finances and the various other worries that have become part of life during the pandemic, you may neglect to take time for yourself.
However, your body and mind need time each day to decompress and destress. Try spending a few minutes each day doing something for yourself, even if that means reading a good book, practicing yoga, meditating, or taking a relaxing shower. Your mental health will thank you.
Scheduling a Visit With a Therapist
A therapist can help you talk through your problems. They assist you in identifying stressors and providing you with ways to cope with them.
The pandemic has made it so limiting social interactions is the safest option, so you may want to consider a telehealth visit. The appointment is done through an electronic device in the comfort of your home. Consider buying a pair of quality headphones, so you can hear clearly and know what the therapist is saying to you. If the headphones have a microphone, the therapist will be able to hear you well.
Improve Your Diet
When you’re stressed, you’re more likely to make unhealthy eating choices. You might crave sugar for that release of dopamine or choose unhealthy convenience foods because you don’t have the desire or energy to cook. These habits weigh heavily on your mental health. Not to mention, vitamin deficiencies can cause anxiety.
Improve your diet and improve your mental health simultaneously.
Get Therapy, Take Steps for Better Mental Health
If you need therapy, don’t hesitate to get it. Make sure you’re taking steps to improve your mental health as well.
For more tips on improving mental health, visit Bliss Planet.
