Protect Your Mental Health: Four Things You Can Do in Your Own Space (at Your Own Pace)  

Bo Tefu | Impact Alameda

Shanice Smith, a social worker at Roots Community Health Center in Oakland, with extensive experience in behavioral health is offering tips on different ways people can keep their mental health in check, especially as we begin to head out of the global pandemic

Smith highlights the importance of developing effective mental health practices “to build a resilient community.”

Practice Self-Care, It’s Not Just a Buzzword

Self-care is about self-preservation.  It’s important to make sure that you are doing something for yourself, even if it’s 30 minutes a day. So, find activities that can help curb your anxiety. For some people, it can be a fun hobby or a task such as meal prepping, as long as it can help you feel better about yourself.

Plan Your Day Around What You Can Control 

The COVID-19 pandemic has made many people anxious about the future. There is no guaranteed timeline for when COVID-19 will end, however, you can plan out your day and figure out what you can control. A key lesson the pandemic taught us is that certain things are out of our control, so we need to be cognizant of the way we handle inconveniences. There are times you should also need to let things go when they are beyond your control or not working in your favor. The best way to bounce back is to focus on the things that you do have control over and make that better if possible.

Communicate with the People You Care About 

The majority of people are overwhelmed with balancing their responsibilities, so it’s important to let people in your life know what’s going on. Communication can help avoid any misunderstandings and can present opportunities for you to talk about your experiences. Talking to friends and family does not mean that you should not work with a mental health professional. Consult a mental health professional if you recognize the need for mental health support.

Go Out for Fresh Air

Being indoors for many days can affect you mentally, physically, and spiritually. It’s important to follow recommended safety precautions even if you are vaccinated but go outside and get some fresh air. It can help you feel better to spend time outside, whether you are enjoying a picnic, taking a walk, or doing an exercise routine. Take part in activities that will help boost your mood — as long as you feel safe and comfortable.