This year's World Mental Health Day comes at a time when people's lives have changed considerably as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
No matter who you are or where you are from, the consequences of the ongoing pandemic is huge, especially with regards to people's mental health. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), close to 1 billion people are living with a mental disorder and one person dies every 40 seconds due to suicide. These figures are likely to increase further as the pandemic continues, but there are several ways to boost mental health wherever you are.
To help our readers, this article by Pacific Prime provides 5 effective and empowering ways to boost mental health and prevent you from developing mental health problems.
Establish positive social interactions
As social beings, we all thrive on positive social interactions, whether that is with family members, a network of close friends, or colleagues at work. However, the pandemic means most people are separated from family, friends, and colleagues due to social distancing measures that are still in place to stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus. Fortunately, establishing a positive social interaction doesn't have to take place in person. Nowadays, the technology that we use such as mobile phones and tablet devices, means we can have video chats and send messages to others in an instant.
Many technology companies like Apple Inc. enable users to connect with others and share the same ecosystem. For example, Family Sharing, allows users and up to five of their family members to share access to different services like Apple Music, Apple TV+, Apple News+, and Apple Arcade. With connectivity, everyone is alerted to what the other is doing and this can create positive interactions like sharing trending iTune Track, sending enlightening and educational Apple Books, and much more.
What's more, for family members that are separated due to closed borders and COVID-19 prevention measures, other members can keep track of their locations. Family members can check in on others every now and then to make sure the situation where they are is stable and safe.
All of the above services can help improve mental health and allow all family members but also friends and work colleagues using the same ecosystem to enjoy experiences and share anything they like to others.
Exercise helps boost mental health
Exercise is by far one of the best ways to boost mental health. According to a study by the Lancet, people who engage in exercise have 43% lower self-reported "poor mental health" days compared to those who don't. Here are 2 exercises that can be done at home or outdoors, while socially distancing:
Walking, jogging, or running
These exercises not only gets your heart pumping and blood circulating, but benefits your mental health. The concentration needed to place each foot right and maintain a proper upright posture can require a lot of focus. When focused, negative thoughts typically fade away as you focus on the route ahead and leave space for you to mentally sync with your body.
Yoga
Yoga is great if you prefer gentle movements, loads of body control, and satisfying stretches. Depending on the choice of yoga you go for, the exercises and body movements can help hone your thoughts, build your sense of self, clear your mind, and much more. All of which promotes a healthy mind and improves wellbeing.
Practice gratitude
When in crisis, people tend to worry about the things that will change and immediately impact them, and rightfully so. But did you know that counting your blessings, as opposed to your burdens, can give you an instant 25% boost in happiness?
Gratitude is one of the fastest and simplest ways to feel better and boost your mental health. When you are more mindful about what you have, the positive thoughts tend to follow, and this leads to a boost in mental health.
Besides, by sharing positive thoughts, feelings, and feedback to others, the same will be received by them too. A win-win for all. The best thing is that it doesn't cost anything, so the next time you are feeling great about yourself or others, make sure to share with those in your positive social circle.
Helping to increase mental health awareness globally
Pacific Prime is proud to be able to provide coverage on mental health problems and continually produce content that looks at activities to improve mental health. Here is a couple to mention:
COVID-19: What can employers do to protect their employee's mental health? Coronavirus outbreak: 7 tips that will KEEP you mentally healthyEven before the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, Pacific Prime has been closely monitoring the increasing trend of mental health problems affecting individuals globally. In fact, many employees in countries such as the UAE, Hong Kong, and Singapore have witnessed a surge of mental health problems and stress-related burnout. If you are suffering from stress, we encourage you to check out more of our tips to ensure you protect your mental health and wellbeing.
Pacific Prime has over two decades worth of experience helping individuals, expats, families, and businesses find the right plan.
Contact us today to inquire about health insurance and more.
