Page 60 - Print21 May-June 2020
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Business Intelligence
    Covid-19 and
mental health
Man Anchor leader Steve Gamble –
who is also Bottecher’s national sales manager – says there are four great ways we can safeguard our mental health as we move through the pandemic.
To say we are living in uncertain times is
an understatement, regardless of your thoughts on the pandemic.
The Covid–19 pandemic has changed our world if we like it or not, and
the social and economic effects have already impacted many of our lives in only a few short weeks.
The social and economic impact
of Covid–19 will certainly affect a larger proportion of the community’s mental health than the pandemic itself, so it is important we continue to support both our physical and mental health.
So how do we do that?
No 1. Stay connected Social distancing does not equate
to social isolation, just as in more positive times staying connected and communicating with friends and family is key to supporting positive mental health. As a community, we cannot close off our communication. This pandemic is causing, and will continue to cause, stress and distress to many, and in some may trigger a mental health crisis. The economic downturn will put unbelievable pressure on many, and it is important that we give the people around us the green light to reach out for support.
Tip: Be creative in how you connect with friends and family, like virtual coffee or drinks.
60   Print21 MAY/JUNE 2020
No 2. Stay active
The power of exercise is amazing
and is key to a healthy mind. It relieves tension and stress, boosts physical and mental energy, and enhances well-being through the release of endorphins. Exercise
can be the perfect way to de-stress and zone out from the pressures
of life, creating a perfect spot to gather your thoughts with a calm and positive mindset. Anything from a 15-minute run to a one- hour walk can be beneficial and make a positive impact. But, please be mindful of responsible social distancing practices.
Tip: Get someone to participate in your activity with you, be it a partner, friend, or family member.
No 3. Limit news feeds It is important to stay
connected to information regarding the pandemic, however, we need to be mindful that a constant barrage of negative media can have a negative effect on your and your family’s mental health. The continuous feed of information can cause distress and anxiety, which will impact your ability to think in a proactive manner.
Tip: Set yourself a time (once or twice a day) in the morning and evening to watch the news.
“We need to be mindful that a constant barrage of negative media can have a negative effect on your and your family’s mental health.”
No 4. Know the signs We should all have a basic
understanding of the signs and symptoms relating to mental illness. The fact is the pandemic will cause many to become stressed, which could possibly trigger a disorder such as anxiety and depression. In knowing this,
if we can identify when we, or someone close to us, is becoming unwell and address it with proactive, early intervention, the likelihood of it becoming an illness is far less. Mental illness affects a person’s thinking, emotional state, behaviour, and physical wellbeing. If these changes and symptoms last longer than a few weeks or impact the person’s ability to function
or carry out daily activities, it is recommended that they seek professional support.
Tip: Having open and transparent conversations about the impact
of the pandemic can allow you to identify subtle changes in your own and others’ mental health. 21
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Stressful: Covid-19
Steve Gamble, Man Anchor
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