This COVID-19 outbreak has impaired not only the physical health of those who have contracted the virus but also the mental health of millions of people worldwide. It has affected 212 countries on this planet, with around 4.2 million individuals who are confirmed of suffering from COVID-19. Also, 280 thousand people are now dead and have been cremated because of this illness. This happened in a span of four or five months. I mean, who would not have an anxiety episode or a depressive mood after learning of this?
But we cannot be impaired by this disease. If we are already physically disabled, we must not let COVID-19 affect our mental health. We will fight this with all our spiritual might. Some people get depressed because they cannot go out to make a living or because they have been forced to take a leave from work. Others are anxious about the virus. I understand that. Our savings are depleting, and this package that the government is giving is delayed. Life is throwing us a curveball at this time, but we are thinking beings. We will rise above this, and we will find a way to have that money so we will be less depressed or anxious.
So, here is what we have to do. We need to condition our minds and process our emotions in a very healthy way or system. This was the advice of a mental health expert and clinical psychologist named Nishani Samaraweera.
- Allow and accept that you have these feelings of fear and sadness because of this virus. It is fine. This makes you human, and it will be the factor for your mental health strength, eventually.
- You have to connect with people, your friends, and your loved ones during this time. Of course, social distancing must be observed, and you can only communicate through online channels. We have to limit get-togethers and public exposure. COVID-19 may be present on that person who is hugging or the table you are leaning on while eating. While this virus is ongoing and has not zeroed in yet, we need to practice all safety precautions. Or better again, stay at home and be productive.
- You are not and will never be alone. If your friends or family are not available to talk to you, many online mental health counselors are ready to have a conversation with you any time you need it. Just check the apps on your phone for that service.
- This is not the first time that you have been in an awkward position in your life, and it will not be the last. This is a moment of challenge, and you will get past this. You have surpassed a significant event, and that is when you had that physical disability. This pandemic is nothing to you. You are a survivor, remember that.
- Always have that inclination to improve yourself. What can you do at home with this much time? Enhance your skills. Take an online course, class, and workshop, and get that certification. Did you know that there are so many webinars that you can “attend” where you can gain knowledge and use it for an online business? Online work is the only way to do business now, and you can earn money from it. For example, you can take a 4-week online workshop on skincare making, get a certification, and start making your skincare line. This can be a lucrative business for you.
- You are alive and breathing. That is because the Almighty has blessed you with life. Use this blessing, and be grateful that you are in excellent health. Practice simplicity, humility, and faith. You need it now more than ever.
- In every adversity, there is a seed of equivalent benefit. This is a rephrase from Aristotle’s famous quote. It may be a significant hurdle now, but wallowing will not get you in a good place. Rise above it.
If you can cope with yourself, then you are lucky. But if you need assistance, do not hesitate to call one of the online counselors available.