Taking Care Of Mental Health During A Pandemic

We’re all taking extra precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19, but social isolation and lack of community connection can have serious mental health implications.

How COVID-19 Affects Mental Health

Uncertainty causes fear, and there’s plenty of uncertainty to go around. Fear of the unknown may create stress as a result of COVID-19. And depression and anxiety can affect people, particularly the elderly when there is less socialization.

Signs of mental health struggles may include:

• Fear, worry, or anxiety about your health or the health of your loved ones
• Difficulty concentrating or participating in daily tasks
• Changes in sleep or appetite
• Worsening of chronic health conditions
• Use of substances like alcohol, tobacco, or drugs

Social Disconnection

Loneliness is a powerful emotion and can have catastrophic effects on a person’s mental and physical health. This is a particular problem for seniors living in an assisted living facility since they cannot see visitors during the pandemic.

FaceTime, video conferences, and phone calls are essential to maintain contact with family and friends who cannot come for a visit. Social interaction eases the burdens of seniors’ minds when they get to catch up with their loved ones.

Supporting Mental Health In Isolation

Take breaks from watching the news: Turn off the TV and unwind from the flow of information. Giving your mind a break from stressing about the pandemic will allow you to focus on other things.

Take care of physical health: Eat well-balanced meals, exercise, and get a good night’s sleep. Your physical and emotional health are closely linked, so poor physical health can affect your mind too.

Voice your concerns: Keep your loved ones in the loop about your state of mind. Talking about your anxieties may help ease the stress you feel about the pandemic.

Have a plan: Find out how and where you can receive treatment if you do get sick and practice health safety. Having a strategy, even if you don’t need one, will prevent you from stressing about the unknown.

Contact Embassy Healthcare or call 888-975-1379 to learn more about our assisted living facilities and health services.