Maintaining your Sanity during Tough Times

Certainly, these times are undeniably challenging, with numerous threats impacting our physical and economic well-being. It is only natural to feel worn out and fatigued after enduring months of isolation. Mental health experts have observed a notable rise in cases of depression, anxiety, and exhaustion. 

According to a 2022 study conducted by the Harris Poll on behalf of the American Psychological Association, a substantial percentage of American adults are currently grappling with emotional overwhelm. The survey results suggest that these individuals have been continuously confronted with various tough times over the past couple of years. This leads to a pervasive sense of stress and fatigue. Regrettably, these symptoms have gradually normalized, increasing the potential risks to their overall health and well-being.

Experts believe, on a scientific level, that there is nothing inherently detrimental about the physiological aspects of stress. However, the real issue arises when stress is not effectively managed or when the body does not have sufficient time to recover from stressful situations. This can lead to the development of chronic stress, eventual burnout, and various physical health complications. It is crucial to address and manage stress in a healthy manner to prevent these negative consequences.

Helpful Tips for Your Sanity

In order to cultivate resilience, it can be beneficial to gain a deeper understanding of your stress. This way, you will develop effective stress management techniques, prioritize recovery time following stressful experiences, and, ideally, transform stress into an opportunity for personal growth. By adopting these strategies, individuals can enhance their ability to navigate and thrive amidst challenging circumstances.

Be more self-aware. 

Cultivating self-awareness is crucial for maintaining good mental well-being. When you observe yourself without judgment, you become accountable for how you react to stressful situations. A grounding exercise that involves reflecting on our emotions, thoughts, actions, and breathing patterns can be very helpful. By doing so, you can explore what you truly desire in the present moment. It is important to learn to distinguish between saying “I am angry” and “I feel angry.” Recognizing that emotions are transient and do not define your entire being. This separation also applies to your thoughts, enabling you to assess whether your internal dialogue serves you positively.

Keep up your daily routines.

Maintaining daily routines is vital for self-care and overall well-being. Ensuring you get enough sleep, nourishment, and exercise plays a significant role in taking care of yourself. Even during periods of slower activity or when business may be quiet, it is important to check messages and stay connected with other professionals. Consistently “showing up” for yourself and others on a daily basis helps establish a sense of stability and provides a foundation for maintaining productivity and positive relationships. By adhering to these routines, you prioritize self-care and ensure that you remain engaged and connected in both personal and professional aspects of your life.

Minimize your news consumption. 

It is essential to establish boundaries and limit your news consumption for the sake of your well-being. Constantly seeking the latest health statistics or immersing yourself in news coverage can contribute to heightened stress and anxiety.  Consider setting aside dedicated periods of time each day to disconnect from screens and news updates. This intentional break can allow you to focus on other activities that bring you joy or relaxation. Remember, staying informed is important, but it is equally crucial to prioritize your mental well-being. By consciously managing your news consumption and taking regular breaks, you create space for peace of mind and reduce the potential negative impact of constant exposure to news-related stressors.

Know your source of stress. 

During stressful or tough times, your true self can emerge, often revealing aspects of your personality that are not usually seen. Tough situations can trigger negative behaviors such as being overly critical, inflexible, or withdrawing from others. Recognizing these patterns and understanding your individual stress responses is crucial for managing stressful future events effectively. Identifying our stress triggers is equally important. Gaining a deeper understanding of yourself in these circumstances provides valuable insights that can help restore balance and enable you to navigate future challenges more successfully. Recognizing the factors that contribute to your stress, you empower yourself to proactively manage these situations. This allows us to develop strategies to cope with stress, minimize its impact on your well-being, and maintain healthier relationships with others. 

Find an idle time. 

According to a global ranking, the United States is placed 29th in terms of work-life balance. Many American employees have long workdays, take fewer vacations, and fill their schedules with numerous planned activities. In the realm of stress management, it can be beneficial to incorporate idle time into your life. If you lead a busy and demanding lifestyle, it’s worth considering what activities or commitments you can safely remove to create space for idle moments. Although idleness often carries a negative connotation, it can actually serve as a valuable source of mental well-being. 

Talk to someone. 

Keeping your sanity during tough times requires more than mere wishes. If you find yourself struggling to accomplish tasks and navigate daily life due to these mental health challenges, it’s important to seek support from someone who can provide a listening ear and empathetic understanding. Many mental health professionals now offer virtual communication options, ensuring accessibility even from the comfort of your own home. Rest assured that all conversations with these professionals are confidential, providing a safe space for open discussions and support. Remember, reaching out for help is a courageous step towards healing and well-being.

If you are considering talking to a professional, visit Mindshift Psychological Services. They provide various therapy and counseling sessions that help manage your mental health. If you want to know more about them, check out their website or contact them at (714) 584-9700 to schedule an appointment.