In challenging times, we all experiencing heightened anxiety and feelings of depression. We feel grief, fear, and uncertainty. And this can be especially difficult when we are separated from the support systems that have kept us going through tough times in the past.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, I wrote about the new empathy that society is feeling, as a whole, for the experience of chronic illness. I want to take this opportunity to think about mental illness through this lens. One in five adults, and one in six youth, experience mental illness each year. Most people in quarantine were struggling with feelings that these individuals experience on a daily basis. With the end of the pandemic, I hope we can all still remember how this feels, and use it to fuel compassion for others.
So what can we do, now and in the future, to support those we love?
Reach out
A simple “How are ya?” or “thinking of you” can go such a long way. If this is feeling daunting, don’t be ashamed. Complicated emotions can come up when allowing yourself and someone else to experience vulnerability together. But it can feel amazing once you get more comfortable! If you need some tips, check out our guide for reaching out to loved ones.
Snail mail
Yes, really! Mental health experts agree that anticipation of something good can have a positive impact on our psyche! If you let someone know that you sent them something, they can look forward each day to knowing it’s coming, and then have the added bonus of receiving the item itself. This can be anything — a hand-written letter, pictures from a good memory, a gift or card… the key is that whatever you send makes them feel loved and seen for who they are.
Set up a date
If you are able, set up an activity to do with them sometime in the near future. This adds to the anticipation benefits, and the social interaction and mental distraction can go such a long way. You could play a game, watch a comedy, cook a meal together, make some crafts, work out… even a 10 minute walk and catch up! All of these activities are possible to do while social distancing. You can connect over video calls or outside. And remember, simply being outside has many mental health benefits!
Just because we have to isolate right now does not mean we have to go it alone. And when this is all over, let’s remember those who are still experiencing mental illness.
Mental Health Resources:
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org): We can all help prevent suicide. The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals. 1-800-273-8255
- National Domestic Violence Hotline (www.thehotline.org Learn more about how to stay safe at https://www.thehotline.org/2020/03/13/staying-safe-during-covid-19/. For any victims and survivors who need support, we are here for you, 24/7. Call 1-800-799-7233 or 1-800-787-3224 for TTY, or if you’re unable to speak safely, you can log onto thehotline.org or text LOVEIS to 22522.
- Empower Work (www.empowerwork.org) support for work questions, concerns, stress. Trained peer counselors are a text away: 510-674-1414 or webchat: empowerwork.org. Free, confidential, immediate.
- Five apps to calm the mind, body, and spirit
http://blkandfit.com/2020/03/5-apps-to-calm-the-mind-body-spirit/