Staying Well While Isolated

As we move into the upcoming winter months, it is so important that we take a moment to reflect on how we can best support our mental health. Winter tends to be a time of loneliness for many people, and this year the continued isolation we are living with as a result of the pandemic will most likely add to these feelings of loneliness for many people. Read on for a few tips on how to stay well during isolation.

Stay connected
While we are required to remain physically distant, this doesn’t have to mean socially distant. In fact, staying connected to family and friends is more important than ever. Technology is one way to keep connected. Send that email or text to that friend that you have been meaning to reach out to. Or pick up the phone and reach out to someone you care about, especially to someone who also may be feeling lonely during this time.

Follow a routine
Try to follow a healthy routine or schedule as much as possible. Poor or inadequate sleep can cause irritability and stress, while healthy sleep can enhance your feelings of well-being. Going to sleep and waking up at similar times has been proven to improve the quality of your sleep as well.
Eating a well-balanced diet on an established schedule has also been associated with feelings of well-being. Eating better can also increase your energy, and make you feel better about yourself. Have you ever noticed that you can manage your stress better when you have eaten a meal, as opposed to when you are hungry?

Exercise
Getting exercise on a regular basis is good for your mental health as well as your physical health. It may help to boost your mental health by reducing anxiety, depression and negative mood. Exercise releases chemicals such as endorphins and serotonin into your body – these have been called the “feel good” chemicals. It may be difficult to motivate yourself to exercise on a regular basis during the cold winter months, but even just getting outside and going for a walk can be so beneficial to your mental well-being.

Seek Additional Help if Necessary
If you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed, reach out for help. This might look like calling a friend or another trusted adult. You can also contact a professional, such as your family doctor.

If you are in crisis please call Four County Crisis for free, confidential crisis support at 705-745-6484 or toll-free 1-866-995-9933.