Life can be overwhelming, making it harder to make healthy decisions. Oftentimes, mental health issues are hard to manage when you’re under a lot of stress. When life gets a little out of control it’s important to have a distraction to help you practice self-care. This is especially true when there’s nothing you can do about your current situation. With COVID-19 on the rise, it is easy to be overwhelmed by the state and local government regulations, which are constantly changing, and keeping track of what is and isn’t open. Here are some things you can do to help distract yourself and stay occupied during these trying times.
Get Busy With Projects
Given the current situation with the pandemic, your social calendar might be more limited than usual. It’s hard to visit people from other states, going out to eat can be tricky, and most gyms are closed. When you’re left alone with your thoughts it could lead to negative self-talk or obsession over all the things you can’t do or have. It’s helpful to create projects for yourself to prevent yourself from getting too lonely or bored. You can organize your photo albums, give your kitchen a deep clean, or get rid of junk in your basement. Giving yourself a project will also help you feel productive and improve your mood because you will have accomplished something. You could also rekindle your love for an old hobby like starting an art project, practicing an instrument, or playing some hoops outside.
Reconnect With Old Friends
Since everyone is struggling with their social calendar during the pandemic, now is the perfect time to catch up with old friends. Reconnect with people you haven’t talked to in a while. Maybe even chat with some peers to see how they are doing in recovery during the pandemic. You can help each other out by giving each other advice or just keeping each other company. You can organize a virtual party. A virtual party is a great way to relieve stress, stay safe, and be social.
Take a Class
Virtual classes are offered online by almost every major institution. Some are even free or at a reduced cost. There is no distraction better than expanding your mind. Is there something you’ve always wanted to learn, but never had the time? Is there a class you could take to advance your career? Taking a class will provide you with a consistent distraction and can help you be proactive in your recovery. You will also have teachers and peers who will hold you accountable for your work. Taking a class can reignite an old passion or it can help you find something new to love and maybe even have another reason to stay sober.
Having projects, attending virtual social gatherings, or taking classes are good distractions to help keep away negative self-talk and stay productive during the pandemic. Keeping busy can help you keep your mental health under control because you will have something else to think about and occupy your mind. It will help if you can find an activity that will keep you entertained and focused. Alta Loma can help you find both distractions and solutions to help you during your recovery. If you need help, please call (866) 457-3843 for more information.
