Firstly, anything that can spark communication is always good! When people are depressed, they often feel like they are in a deep dark hole that they can’t climb out of. Anyone who leans over the edge of this hole, looks down, stretches an arm out, shines a torch in, gives them a hand or a leg up, can be very helpful.
Secondly, it is important to keep checking in on each other. We don’t have to wait for an awareness day, a national campaign or even a virus to touch base with one another! I would encourage asking the difficult questions, not avoiding them. Becoming mindful of our own and someone else’s mental health is what we need to do as individuals, as groups and as a community. And lets remember that whilst COVID-19 physical distancing highlighted the negative effects of social isolation on mental health, isolation and loneliness were a widespread problem even before the pandemic!
We know that lack of support can cause loneliness and isolation, which in turn lowers people’s wellbeing, impacts mental health and can lead to mental illness. It is important for individuals dealing with social isolation to have self-care strategies.
For example:-
• Engaging in relaxing activities. Exercise and stretching, reading, listening to music, meditation and prayer, journaling, and hobbies can help relieve stress that can be associated with isolation.
• Following a routine. Daily routines promote a sense of purpose and normalcy.
• Maintaining healthy habits. Eating well, getting enough sleep, and engaging in physical activity can promote better mental health.
• Staying connected. If conditions limit in-person contact, phone calls, email, texting, social media platforms, and videoconferencing can be used to stay in touch.
With all that said, it’s important to remember social isolation is not necessarily bad; most people crave solitude at least occasionally. Being alone can be relaxing, meditative, and rejuvenating!!
Stress can be debilitating! And since stress is a normal part of human existence — nobody is immune to it! Mental ill health is a growing concern. Connect with other people…throw them a life line!
And remember it is okay to not be okay!