By: Natasha Archary
Level 3 lockdown and the 9pm curfew have put a halt to the social lives of city dwellers. For those who are still working from home, cabin fever can set in after a while.
About 65% of South Africans had heightened stress challenges during the first few weeks of lockdown in 2020 according to a survey by the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG).
Wellness experts recommend prioritising your mental health and well-being. It’s a little more difficult to maintain a balanced mood and positive outlook if you’re living alone. Amongst the respondents in the survey, 12% of people said they felt despondent and lonely.
It is a difficult and stressful time right now, to help with the depression and anxiety you may be experiencing, try these 5 tips to get through the lockdown a day at a time.
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A flexible routine
Working from home offers flexibility but if you are to be productive, having a routine will anchor you. Setting tasks and having a schedule for the day can help achieve a sense of accomplishment. If you’re prone to procrastination, a stricter routine may be needed. Dedicate time for key areas and adapt the routine as you go.
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Self-care is important
You cannot pour from an empty cup and you have to put yourself first. Set time aside to do something that is all about you. Whether it’s exercising or putting on your favourite playlist and dancing like no one’s watching. The point is to get your endorphins (feel good hormones) flowing so you can feel more energised.
Read: The loneliest virus in the world
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Acknowledge your feelings
One of the most important things to do if you have anxiety is to track your feelings, fears and triggers so you can acknowledge what sets them off and embrace them. Positive or negative, our emotions are what make us human. Track your feelings in a journal as a way to get through them.
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Get out when you can
As limiting as the restrictions are, you can visit family and friends provided you’re observing the safety measures. You can also take a walk around your neighbourhood or an aimless drive to take in the scenery.
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Seek help
It’s okay to ask for help and to admit that you’re not coping. Reaching out to family, friends or colleagues can be helpful. Having a support structure to check in on you can go a long way in keeping the loneliness at bay.
Need help?
This article mentioned suicide and depression. If you need help with any mental health issues, please contact SADAG on the following lines:
Suicide Crisis Line: 0800 567 567
SADAG Mental Health Line: 011 234 4837
Support Groups: 0800 21 22 23 (8am to 8pm) or 0800 12 13 14 (8pm to 8am) or SMS 31393.
