Take care of your mental and social health during COVID

​The other day I was talking with my husband and we were both commenting on how we’ve felt a bit of depression set in from this long COVID year. We all need human interaction to thrive, and with health challenges, financial pressures, political unrest, and so much uncertainty, it’s no wonder that many of us feel a little down. I wanted to share some tips from Salt Lake County’s Health Department on how to improve or maintain your mental and social health as we head into the final stretch.

• Take breaks from the news and social media - It is important to stay informed, but constantly hearing about the pandemic or politics is exhausting and upsetting. Limit your news and social media intake to once a day or every other day.
• Practice Mindfulness – Set aside time every day (even for five minutes) to be in the present moment. You can do this by meditating, journaling, or focusing on your breathing.
• Go outside for 30 minutes every day– Bundle up and get outside. Being outdoors is a natural antidepressant as sunshine naturally increases serotonin and endorphins that boost energy and reduce pain.
• Get enough sleep – Stick to a regular sleep schedule and give yourself extra wind-down time each night before bed to read, stretch, and/or meditate to ensure quality sleep.
• Stay in touch – Be intentional with your connections by scheduling regular video chats, phone calls, or text messages with loved ones.
• Try online exercise classes – Salt Lake County Parks and Rec are hosting online exercise classes for all activity levels. Check out the schedules at slco.org/parks-recreation.
• Take Virtual Tours with loved ones – The Utah Hogle Zoo, Utah Museum of Contemporary Art, The Leonardo, and the Tracy Aviary all offer virtual experiences to enjoy with family and friends.
• Write letters – Create handwritten letters with your household for a senior citizen fighting loneliness. Learn more at loveforourelders.org/letters
• Adopt or foster a pet – Adopting or fostering a pet is one of the best ways to ease loneliness. Pets offer companionship, instill a routine, reduce blood pressure, and provide mental stimulation. More information at slco.org/animal-services/adoption-information/
• Continue doing the things you enjoy virtually - Host a virtual movie night, book club, game night, online cooking class or karaoke.

 
After reviewing this list, I have to admit that I need to do better on my sleep habits. And keeping my cell phone next to my bed is probably not helpful. One thing we did this past summer is welcomed our first pet (fish excluded) into our family. Ripley, our mini goldendoodle puppy, has forced us out for walks every day, and she’s kept life interesting during the pandemic. Some of my favorite memories have been Zoom calls with the entire Winder or Newton extended family so we could catch up and hear how everyone was doing.
This pandemic will only break down our mental health and friendships if we let it, so take active steps to stay engaged, integrate healthy behaviors, and connect with our loved ones. If you have other mental health issues where you are thinking about harming yourself or others, please call the crisis line at 801-587-3000 or contact them on the SAFE UT app.