The COVID-19 pandemic is the focus of every news outlet and social media news feeds these days, but there are still those who battle it out behind the scenes with the war against mental illness. With the onset of the global health pandemic, the population has seen a rise in mental health concerns due to the effects of isolation and the quarantine period. Given this, there is a great need for communities to help out these warriors to help survive the anxiety-inducing effects of the current situation.
Building strong communities is important these days, and this could be done by offering alternative mental health therapies to patients. Alternative therapies should not serve as medical advice, rather as potential alternative care for these warriors. Before exploring any means for therapy, it is always best to consult your trusted medical professional.
Alternative Therapy for Overall Wellness
Mental health disorders affect the mood, thinking, and behavior of an individual. Mental illness can disrupt an individual’s everyday life, and it could also be detrimental to one’s physical safety. It is important to be aware of the various mental illnesses and their symptoms so that you can recognize these in yourself or your loved ones before it is too late.
Since the onset of the global pandemic, many individuals have been experiencing bouts of anxiety and depression due to the stressors of the current situation. Given the difficult circumstances, it can be tough to try to ease these symptoms. While medical intervention should always be your priority for mental health care, here are some ways that may help in taking care of your overall wellness.
Anxiety is a common case in many individuals these days due to the stress of the quarantine period and the uncertainty of this pandemic. In some states, the use of cannabidiol oil is legal for medicinal purposes. Using cannabidiol oil can potentially ease symptoms of anxiety. Seek help from a cannabis business lawyer for potential conflict in some states. You should first check with your local government regarding their policies on the use of CBD. Also, get medical advice from your trusted doctor before trying CBD therapy for mental health.
Trying dancing can be good mental health therapy in addition to your medical intervention. Physical exercise is good for anyone, and it elevates your happy hormones. While setting up a home gym might not be your cup of tea, you can opt for a dance session with your family in your living room. Dance to the beat of your favorite music, and soon, you will feel your stress slowly easing away with every movement.
Art therapy is also a good alternative therapy method. Once you consult with a medical professional, there is a good chance that they will suggest art-making as a form of self-expression and release of pent-up emotions. Making art will allow you to get to know yourself better and ease your pain. Art therapy has the power to heal emotional wounds, which makes it ideal for managing mental illnesses.
If you or anyone you know has been suffering from mental illness, don’t hesitate to consult a medical professional to help you out. Prioritize your health, both physical and mental, during this global pandemic.
Effective Community-building
Suggesting alternative mental health therapy methods allows individuals to thrive despite challenging situations. Empathy and compassion are both crucial in aiming for effective community-building. Being open-minded to the various experiences that an individual may have during this pandemic can help build communities. Part of effective community-building is encouraging individuals to better themselves despite the difficulties.
Being involved in your community is essential in maintaining good mental health. This is especially important during these times when everyone has been feeling isolated at home. Communities help bring each other up, and being part of a community helps create a sense of belongingness and social connectedness.
Helping Your Community Cope
Helping out the people in your community during this difficult time can also help ease your own worries. Although social distancing measures and quarantine protocols remain, there are ways in which you can help each other out during this time.
Dealing with mental illness is not easy for anyone, and it requires a strong support system, whether from friends and family or strangers who have good intentions. In seeking ways to help out others, make sure you also save energy for yourself and your family at home. You need to preserve your energy for your own healing amid this stressful time.
In helping out within your community, you can connect with your community– or faith-based organizations and see if they have any online programs wherein you can volunteer your services. Help others cope with the current situation by giving them a call or sending them a message to let them know that someone cares and that they are not alone. This will also help you feel less lonely and isolated amid this pandemic.
While connecting with your community creates valuable relationships, make sure you don’t sacrifice your own self-care measures. Self-care for mental illness is of great importance these days, and you should not take this lightly. The quarantine period can easily take a toll on your system, so relax and try to give whenever you can.