Although working from home might be some people’s idea of bliss, due to circumstances, environment and personality it might be other’s idea of a nightmare. So what can we do to manage our mental health and wellbeing during this difficult time?
Maintain social contact
The lack of our usual daily interaction, whether that be in an office, working with customers or clients can leave some people feeling very isolated. Working alone can leave people with feelings of anxiety and low mood and this is quite understandable as you are unable to draw upon the support of those around you during the day as you would usually.
It is important to maintain social contact when working from home. This could be phoning a friend, using emails, texts or maybe arranging a group video call to check in regularly.
Social media gives us the opportunity to connect with huge audiences but can sometimes leave us feeling isolated and disconnected as there is a lack of true emotional connection. It is useful for some and not others, so be mindful of the effect it is having on your mental health.
Eat well and exercise
Staying at home all day is likely to reduce your amount of physical activity, especially if you were used to a less sedentary lifestyle. And as we know, physical activity is linked to mood and exercise can lift your mood by releasing endorphins. Try introducing some exercise into your day that can be done indoors. There are some great plans online, for example you could try introducing a 30 day yoga plan and introduce a 30 minute yoga session on your lunch break. Or take a walk, jog or cycle. If you’re a morning person, try a morning exercise routine to start your day.
Take regular breaks. Just moving around the house, maybe walking up and down the stairs a few times or just going to get a cup of tea, will make you feel less sluggish.
Eating well and keeping structured mealtimes is also important. When working from home it can be tempting to shift away from normal mealtimes, but maintaining the regular structure and eating healthy foods will boost your immune system and continuity of normal life will be beneficial for mental health.
Structure your day
Structuring your day and setting goals is a really helpful way to maintain normality and reduce the likelihood of cabin fever setting in. Try using a planner to set manageable daily or weekly goals. This can include work tasks, exercise, food, relaxation, things you enjoy doing and include a set bedtime. Setting a structured day can keep you motivated and is an effective way to reduce symptoms of low mood and anxiety.
Organise your workspace
Creating a comfortable and an attractive workspace, if possible, can be really important and can separate your working environment from other areas of your living area such as those where you relax or eat. Organising and tidying your desk and workspace will have a positive effect on your mental health and is likely to make it easier to focus. Tidy away things that you no longer need and add something that brings inspiration!
Do something you enjoy
Boredom and frustration can both lead to negative emotions such as low mood and anxiety; try adding something fun and enjoyable into your day. This could be a hobby that you already enjoy or maybe trying something new. Anything that is relaxing, enjoyable or fun will be beneficial to your mental health.
- Knitting
- Reading
- Puzzles
- Games
- Upcycling furniture
- Drawing / sketching
- Listening to music
- Taking a bubble bath
- Watching a film
- Meditating
- Baking
- Making a mood board
- Cooking something new
Resources
30 days of yoga with Adrienne
https://yogawithadriene.com/30days/
Day planner
https://www.pinterest.co.uk/pin/35677022029149110/
Photo by Arnel Hasanovic on Unsplash