The combination of uncertainty, anxiety, and prolonged social isolation is taking a toll on many of us. Mental health issues such as emotional isolation, loneliness, and lethargy, and depression are on the rise. The increased risk of physical conditions as a result of the stress and inactivity include increased osteoporosis, muscle atrophy, obesity, and diabetes.

My colleague and president of Parker University, Dr. William Morgan addressed these recently in an article entitled "The Pandemics Within The Pandemic". Some of his suggestions:

Reject passivity. Do not passively accept this time as a time of social and physical isolation; be proactive.

Exercise. Schedule it daily. The routine alone is helpful to give some structure to your day. Get outside in fresh air and Vitamin D from the sun. Go for a walk.

Active Nutrition. Make a concerted effort to eat properly and drink responsibly.

Engage socially with others. Keep social distancing & maintain proper protective measures. My sister recently has a driveway party - chairs were 8 feet apart in a circle with food and beverages in the middle.

Give everyone a break, including yourself. Everyone needs social interaction and engagement, but that engagement should not become a source of stress. Engage people on topics of mutual interest. Do not engage in discussing who is to blame for what is happening.

Use technology. Find new ways to connect. There are many ways to communicate with both audio and video interactions.

SHUT OFF THE NEWS! Avoid watching the news obsessively and interacting negatively on social media. Once a day, and walk away.

Look out for others. Reach out to shut-ins and talk to them. Ensure that family and friends are eating correctly.

LAUGH! Still the best medicine!

To read more:
Pandemic Within the Pandemic

BE WELL!

Disclaimer