Who knew that in 2020, you will be sitting in your living room and waiting for a new assignment from your campus professor! Well, in just a couple of months, COVID-19 has impacted study routine and social interaction. Perhaps, we have to live with this for some time. The good thing you can deal with isolation and social distancing with healthy and mindful tips.
Worry not, we have gathered useful tactics suggested by medical experts. These measures can help you to manage your study and social life properly. Let’s have a look:
1. Stick to a routine: WHO has announced mental health guidelines in this outbreak, and one of them is sticking to a routine. Creating a routine means you know exactly when to perform a certain task, eliminating the need for guessing. Consequently, you can ward off anxiety.
2. Stay Connected: The British Psychologist Society suggests, staying in touch with your friends and family creates positive vibes. You are living in the 21st century, where distance doesn’t matter. Rather you can stay in touch with your loved ones through social media. And if you are connected via video call, you will feel the other person is right beside you.
3. Read or listen to podcasts: What can be a better opportunity to enhance your knowledge in this lockdown. Go grab your favorite book (or purchase it online) and start reading. Alternatively, you can listen to your favorite podcast. The skills/knowledge you will gain will help you in your personal and professional life. Not to forget the benefits you will get as a student.
4. Be Grateful: According to a study published in the European Journal of Psychology, gratitude plays a significant role in reducing feelings of loneliness. During these hard times, it can be hard to do so. However, if you look around, you will see a lot of people less privileged than you are. Be thankful for what you are blessed with rather than complaining about what you don’t have.
5. Seek accurate information only: You will come across many rumors regarding COVID-19 cure and other myths. But don’t count on them and stay away from these dubious sources. The best way to do so is by limiting your time on social media and news.
6. Do something different: We have already discussed how reading books or listen to your favorite podcast will increase your grey matter. Other than that, you can also utilize this time to try out a new hobby or develop your existing one. Now is the perfect time to do so. So go ahead, don’t miss this opportunity!
7. Focus on remaining mentally fit: While all of the above things will help you stay occupied and remain mentally fit. Praying and yoga are the most beneficial things for the well-being of the mind. They allow you to reflect on life, release stress, and eventually develop your mental muscles.
8. Be physically fit: Apart from mental health, it is equally important to focus on your physical well-being. Don’t be a couch potato, instead, do some exercise. Like experts from Word Economic Forum also advising routine exercises to make the best of isolation. You can also do some push-ups and other exercises which don’t require dedicated equipment.
9. Take Breaks at regular intervals: According to a clinical psychologist from the University of Houston, depression and anxiety are partners that can fill your mind with negative thoughts during isolation. No worries, you can easily kick them out with healthy shots like reading, making own film festival, stretching in your house or backyard.
10. Stay up to date with university advice and support services:While enjoying the time with your family members, don’t forget to keep an eye on the updates from your university regarding exams and other pertinent stuff. Keep following health alerts from the Department of Health, Government of Australia for universities, students and their staff.
