Coping during stress, uncertainty and grief
Is your mental health and well-being OK?
During times of stress, uncertainty, and grief, it can seem impossible to stop and consider your health and well-being. Good mental health and well-being give you the tools to cope during these times. Some signs of good mental health include:
- Ability to cope with normal life stresses
- Confidence in new situations
- Optimism in the face of adversity
- Positive self-image
- Ability to set and achieve goals
- Separating yourself from the problem
- Active engagement with others around you
If you feel like you are struggling, don’t forget to take a moment to employ strategies to manage your mental health. There are many evidence-based strategies to help you strengthen your resilience. A few ways to help you be mindful of your mental health include:
1. Stay Active
Self-care through exercise helps keep your focus on what is important – you. If intense exercise isn’t for you, try waking your dog, yoga, or swimming to help keep you active and mindful of your body through stressful experiences.
2. Eat and sleep well
Two important aspects of our daily lives – eating and sleeping – can affect our health and well-being. Eating a nutritious diet and having enough rest are foundations to protect your mental health.
3. Maintain a routine
Keeping to a routine will allow you to meet small daily goals. These activities and events help you focus to help you stay connected with friends and family.
4. Be kind to yourself
It is okay to be NOT okay. Give yourself the time YOU need to process your emotions. We each cope in unique ways, and it is vital to understand your coping processes. Speak and think kindly to yourself to help shift negative internal self-dialogue to a more positive narrative.
5. Ask for help
For some of us, asking for help is difficult. We learn to value independence, and it can be daunting to ask for help during a crisis. The saying “it takes a village to raise a child” helps to fulfil sociological, psychological, and belonging needs. It takes a community – one we live in, or one we make for ourselves through our family, friends, and colleagues – to help lift each other and give us the courage to grow and learn.
These are just some ways you can check in with yourself to keep your wellness and mental health in good shape. Below are some more links for you to explore more ways to keep your mental health and well-being in shape.
Article References & Links for more information:
thinkmentalhealthwa.com.au/supporting-my-mental-health/managing-uncertain-times/
thinkmentalhealthwa.com.au/about-mental-health-wellbeing/ways-to-look-after-your-mental-health/
thiswayup.org.au/
apa.org/topics/stress/uncertainty
lookafteryourmentalhealthaustralia.org.au/mental-health-tips/
healthdirect.gov.au/good-mental-health
Featured Image: Photo by Patrick Schneider on Unsplash
