By Heather Braddock, Guest Author
When faced with the unknown, our mental health can take a toll. Here are a three tips to protect our mental health during this time of uncertainty.
Focus
Try to focus on what we can control, not what we can’t. The good news is we are all in this together, the bad news is much of this is beyond our control. Focusing on the things within our control can help calm the anxiety many of us are feeling. Ask yourself, what are three things within my control today? Focus on those three things.
Stay Connected
It is important to stay connected during this time. We can use technology to our advantage as many of you are already doing to continue classes. However, I suggest taking this time to connect with family and friends as well. Go beyond texting, phone calls, and social media and strive for face to face communication with others via video chat. I recommend utilizing FaceTime, skype, google hangouts, etc. to video chat with friends, relatives, and colleagues. Speaking face to face with someone can greatly reduce the risk of depression by building stronger connections with family and friends.
Exercise
If able, get outside and go for a walk or run. Being outside can boost vitamin D and keep our immune system strong while keeping your energy up and enhancing mood. Take some time to exercise at home, maybe try that new type of exercise you’ve been meaning to try but haven’t had time. Exercise is one of the most effective ways to enhance mood and increase energy.
When faced with the unknown, I am reminded of the serenity prayer, often attributed to Reinhold Niebuhr, “God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.”
To read a previous article from The Kayseean about Heather Braddock, click here.
Heather Braddock is a licensed professional counselor with a mental health service provider designation at the King University Counseling Center. Heather works with individuals, couples, and groups to help find hope and healing. She believes change is always possible and her goal is to help individuals develop the tools necessary for effective change by identifying and building personal strengths within the individual. Heather offers a compassionate, non-judgmental approach to therapy.
To schedule a meeting with Heather Braddock at the King University Counseling Center call 423.652.4742 or email counselingcenter@king.edu.
