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A global pandemic, bushfires, political unrest, economic crashes – all of that combined with a lockdown. It’s bound to create a sense of unrest, anxiety or even loneliness. From the moment we wake up, we’re bombarded with information about COVID-19, the death toll, clashing of armies and all things wrong with the world.

We’re confined to the limits of our homes, with little to no social interaction; all the things that were done earlier to release stress have been banned or are clouded in danger.

What then can be done when everything gets too overwhelming? 

With uncertainty lurking in every corner, taking care of your mind has become increasingly vital. It’s important to accept that what’s happening inside your mind is normal and not something to be afraid of.  Identify what exactly it is that’s bogging you down, accept it, and then take measures that would help you feel better. Here are a few things you can do to keep your mind healthy during a lockdown.

1. Choose the information you consume very carefully
   The information you devour on a daily basis affects the way you think and feel to a great extent – be it mainstream media or social media. With misinformation running rampant, it’s important to make sure that the news you follow is from verified sources to avoid unnecessary worry or stress. 
   
2. Disconnect
   Social media and mainstream media both have the potential to make you feel bad about yourself or the world, respectively. Consuming distressing news on a regular basis can get extremely overwhelming – it’s okay to take a break from it and let your mind rest.
   
3. Communicate
   Talk to close friends and family. Let them know about your tiny achievements, your darkest fears, and how you are. Being the social creatures we are, staying connected with loved ones helps ease pain. There might be times you might feel incredibly alone, don’t be afraid to reach out for help. 
   
4. Stick to a routine
   Being stuck at home during a lockdown could potentially distort your perception of time – it feels like it’s been years since it all began, but you can’t seem to pinpoint exactly where the time went with days merging into others. Keeping a routine would create a sense of control over the day – something that is severely lacking during a pandemic.
   
5. Meditate or Express gratitude
   Taking your mind off everything around you provides a sense of serenity nothing else can. Research has proven that meditation reduces symptoms of stress and anxiety. Meditation and focusing on the positive aspects of your life, things you are grateful for, will leave you feeling a little more at ease and perhaps even happier.

These are just a few things that might guide you in maintaining a healthy attitude towards life.

Listen to what your body needs and go ahead and do it – as long as you know that it’s a step in the direction towards peace, happiness and mental wellbeing!