December’s 2nd Edition: Self-Care during COVID-19

Self-Care during COVID-19

By: Ashly Rodriguez 

Without a doubt, many have been impacted mentally by covid-19, students being the group to be hit hardest. “A recent CDC report of 5,400 people found that 25% of respondents between the age of 18-24 had contemplated suicide in the previous 30 days” (Ellis, Mental Health Effects of COVID-19 on High School & College Students). A lot of students wonder when school will return, when will they be able to see friends again, or visit close family members, some students have lost a loved one. It is important to be open to listening to those around you during this time. Offer your ear be there for others. Here are some warning signs from Health Central to look closely at those around you. Be on the lookout for changes in behavior, decreased motivation, no longer interested in favorite things, staying in bed more often. This can even include your close friend no longer talking to you as much, sleeping too much or too little, eating less. These are all red flags that something could be going on mentally. If you feel yourself feeling stressed or unmotivated remember to take a break, zoom fatigue affects many students. Enjoy the little things that make you happy. Be sure to validate the feelings of those around you and offer advice. 

Ways to take care of yourself emotionally is to take care of your diet. Doing this allows your mind to stay cleared and help you feel good overall. With all of the COVID-19 updates and information we receive daily can be overwhelming. You do not need to have social isolation in order to social distance. Keep in touch with video chat, send your friends a letter or play some video games. Having a routine set in place can also reduce stress and give you a sense of accomplishment throughout the day. A lot of us tend to stay in our beds instead of trying new things or doing the things we enjoy. Start journaling, dancing, do anything that makes you feel happy to be alive. As a student it is important to remember your goals and keep a positive mindset throughout this pandemic. We all need each other. We can not help others if we do not help ourselves first.