You have probably gotten advice in the past about how to take care of your mental health. This ongoing pandemic has either increased mental health symptoms in people who already struggle with mental illness or have developed a problem since the pandemic. It is important to get accurate advice that relates to today’s issues as certain rules from the past may not help you get through the pandemic.

The Online World May Help You Today

Social media is very complicated in that it can be a great way to connect with your loved ones, In the past, people may have told you to stay off social media and delete your social media apps to avoid comparing yourself to others. Since the pandemic has made it hard to meet up with people in person because of social distancing, talking to people through Zoom or using your social media feed to be connected with the world may give you a sense of normalcy. To keep your mental health protected, be intentional about what you seek. Instead of doom scrolling through the news the whole time you are online, scroll through inspirational quotes, healthy recipes, or anything else that makes you smile.

You Do Not Have to Say Yes to Everything

You may have been previously told not to be so quick to say no to new opportunities, experiences, people, and interactions. If you are facing choices where someone wants to see you that you know is not taking COVID-19 precautions seriously, you should feel comfortable saying no. The same goes for if a friend you trust wants to go to an area where it is crowded and you feel uneasy in that situation. If you say yes when you do not want to, it will lead to more chaos and negativity in your thoughts. Do not judge yourself if you are refusing to do something that brings more stress to your life.

Pick a Therapist Right For You

Past advice has been for you to pick anyone to talk to. The truth is that you need to find a good friend or therapist to get the help you need. The pandemic has created the need for virtual tools and telehealth options to become more available and accessible. Take the time to research in-network providers with your insurance provider. Getting the right therapeutic advice will help you mentally during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Past therapeutic advice may have been to stay away from technology and to be open to saying yes to everything. When the pandemic came, it changed the mental health of a lot of people. Past therapeutic advice may be different today depending on what your social and safety needs are today. At Alta Loma, we can help put your mental health on the right track and give you the tools you need to be mentally fit. Located in Georgetown, Texas, we offer individualized therapy, medication management, life coping skills education, and more. Please call (866) 457-3843 to learn more.