Some stats and facts: Mental Health America reports “that even before COVID-19, the prevalence of mental illness among adults was increasing. In 2017-2018, 19% of adults experienced a mental illness The number of people looking for help with anxiety and depression has increased tremendously since the pandemic. Now the trigger is going back into the world after being isolated for so long. More people are reporting frequent thoughts of suicide and self-harm than have ever been. Since the COVID-19 pandemic began to spread rapidly in March 2020, over 178,000 people have reported frequent suicidal ideation. Rates of suicidal ideation are highest among youth, especially LGBTQ+ youth.” Tips to protect your mental health Learn how to cope with stress: We all experience stress, but we do not need to be debilitated by stress. Practice being mindful by journaling, going for a walk, watching funny movies and learning to see the humor in some situations. Indulge in Self-care: Learn to treat yourself the same way you would encourage your best friend to take care of themselves. Limit your negative self talk, make time on your calendar just for you, start a hobby and be sure to take care of yourself physically by: Eat nutritious meals (get rid of your COVID junk food stash) Avoid smoking and vaping Hydrate with water Exercise - a simple walk will do if you are just beginning. Yoga is also great for reducing stress. Catch plenty of Zzzzs. Surround yourself with people who make you laugh and genuinely care about you: To quote Dr. Elizabeth King, “Social distance does NOT mean social isolation!” We feel better when we surround ourselves with positive people. Be sure to avoid the naysayers. Lend a hand to someone in need: Studies show that volunteering and giving of yourself and time helps to reduce negative thinking. It also allows you to meet new like-minded people. Need a place to volunteer? Check out SSLwomen.org (Yes, shameless plug!) Practice mindfulness: Practice yoga, spend time outside in nature, take a break from devices, disconnect from social media for a bit. Find things that allow you to experience some calm and give yourself a break from over thinking. Set realistic goals: Taking on a new goal is a great motivator, just be careful not to set unrealistic goals for yourself. This leads to disappointment and increase in negative self talk. Shake up your routine: Do something different! Try a new activity, take the long way home, find a new walking path, get a pet...look for something that you have not done or tried before and challenge yourself. Structure is great, but we do need a break for creative play. Avoid alcohol and other drugs: This one is a “no brainer” but needs to be said. When we are depressed or anxious, self medicating is NEVER the answer. There was a huge increase during the pandemic in substance abuse as people were struggling to cope. Give yourself a sober break. When in doubt, find professional help: If you feel that you have tried everything and still are not feeling your best, find a professional therapist in your area that can help you. Getting therapy is even easier now with the support of tele-health. Most importantly, remember that you are not alone. There is always help available. If you like what you heard and want to support this podcast and our future programs, please text SSLwomen to 44321