As the weeks progress during COVID 19, we are all trying our best to adapt and navigate through unchartered waters. Times of caring for ill family and friends, working in hospitals and other emergency services, respecting social distancing, and dealing with self isolation brings along countless stresses. The measurement of physical symptoms of COVID 19 are absolutely crucial to health, wellness and to flatten the curve of growing number of new cases.
As a psychotherapist in the Niagara Region, my clients, friends and family are also talking about the immense impact of COVID 19 on their mental health. Even without a given diagnosis of a specific mental health issue, such as anxiety or depression, this complete life changing experience effects us all across the board – mind, body and soul.
Just as we check in on our physical symptoms, we also need to take our mental health temperature. Change in and of itself, will elicit for most of us many fears; fears of the unknown and lack of control in some areas of our lives. A new job, marriage or house move naturally requires time to adjust and adapt. We are now in a whole new territory and are seeing changes across the world that many of us would have ever thought are happening.
Good news! We WILL get through this, as well always do. Resiliency is about the ability to face adversity, bounce back for a moment to re-group and then move forward. And we will. In the meantime, it is so very important to Mind your Mental Health along with way.
During our path to navigating the daily routines it is critical to check our mental health signs along the way, I usually see much more subtle indicators which are as equally important to note. If you are experiencing some of these signs at least half the week, it may be best to get assistance from a professional.
Thoughts:
· Reduced concentration, focus and short-term memory
· Constant worrying and over-thinking
· Intrusive thoughts
· Concerns about losing control
Our Body:
· Change in Sleep Patterns - either too much or too little
· Change in appetite
· Constant headaches and/or neck and back muscle pain
· Fatigue
· Emotions:
· A lingering sense of hopelessness
· Increase in irritability and edginess
· Panic attacks
· Low mood and/or depression
· Decreased motivation – difficult to make yourself do activities that you typically enjoy
These are just a few of the many possible signs that you may be struggling. The earlier the self awareness about this, the better. I often speak at conferences and workshops about the value of being pro-active! The effects of stress may be bountiful and the sooner we mind our mental health, the better. Also, know that the connection between physical health and mental health is incredible. They literally dance together, especially when combined with a soul connection that grounds you and gives you strength.
More to offer in my next blog about tips and tricks to maintain optimal mental health…
Until then, be healthy and well, Sherry
In the event you experience thoughts of self harm or suicide, please contact your local emergency contact numbers: If you live in the Niagara Region, call COAST 1-866-550-5205 and press 1
Sherry Campbell, Principal Counsellor and Owner of the Sherry Campbell Group www.sherrycampbellgroup.com
