Managing emotional well-being through a pandemic (English)

The document "Emotional Well-Being During a Pandemic" offers practical advice for maintaining mental and emotional health during the COVID-19 crisis. It acknowledges the widespread emotional reactions individuals might experience, such as anxiety, frustration, and fear, due to the uncertainty and isolation brought about by the pandemic. Recognizing these emotions as natural responses to the situation is emphasized as a first step toward managing them effectively.

One key recommendation is to access accurate information from reliable sources to avoid panic, while limiting exposure to overwhelming or distressing news. The document encourages taking regular breaks from pandemic-related news and focusing on other activities to create a sense of normalcy and emotional relief.

Practical strategies to improve emotional well-being are also discussed, such as maintaining a routine that includes healthy eating, exercise, adequate sleep, and setting aside time for relaxation or enjoyable activities like playing games, learning new skills, or practicing mindfulness. Staying connected with loved ones through phone or video calls is stressed as essential for emotional support and reducing feelings of isolation.

Additionally, the document provides suggestions for managing unhelpful thoughts and replacing them with more positive, realistic perspectives. This includes understanding that adhering to safety guidelines like social distancing helps protect not only oneself but others, and that emergency services and healthcare workers are working tirelessly to manage the situation. The document concludes by offering crisis helplines for those experiencing severe distress or domestic abuse, ensuring that individuals have access to support if needed.