If you’ve taken a look at the news lately, or your UofA issued email account’s inbox,
you would know that the novel coronavirus pandemic–or COVID-19–has essentially flipped the
world as we know it upside down. Amid toilet paper shortages, food hoarding, work from home
policies, and even online classes (which FYI, began Tuesday, March 17, 2020), many people’s
anxiety has shot through the roof. If this is you, you’re not the only one; we all have feelings of
uncertainty because of our state of events. Because of this, it is incredibly important that in an
age of social distancing and borderline pandamonium, we all take strides to not only support our
own mental health, but the mental health of those around us as well.
- Make time for self care.
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These are stressful times, and it is more important than ever that you be kind to yourself.
In the next weeks, we’ll all be spending a considerable amount of time at home, which
means it can be easy to fall into a state bordering on depression. Because of this, I
encourage you to make time for doing the things you love, such as reading that book
you’ve been wanting to, upping your skincare game, or taking up a new hobby. Whatever
it is you choose to do, make sure you continue to make yourself a priority in the coming
days and weeks.
- Keep in contact with your loved ones.
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Social distancing doesn’t have to mean you are cut off from the social world. In fact, I’m
preferring to use the term “physical distancing” rather than social distancing. While we
may not be able to spend time with our loved one’s physically, technology is an amazing
thing. So text your friends, call your parents, and reach out to that one person you usually
sit next to in lecture! Staying socially connected is the best way to combat the loneliness
and lethargy that may be a result of the coming weeks.
- Exhibit kindness to those you interact with.
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Times are tough out there. The service industry is struggling, unnecessary panic is
spreading through our communities, and even something as simple as buying toilet paper
and soup has become an absolute nightmare. This obviously has shot the nerves of many
people. As a result, people are crabby and in poor spirits. But this doesn’t have to affect
you too. I encourage you to exhibit as much kindness as possible to everyone you meet.
Not only will this boost your mood, but the moral of those around you, and thus the spirit
of the whole community.
- Keep on a regular schedule.
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Working and studying from home means that the rigid schedules we are used to as
students have practically gone out the window. To maintain a sense of normalcy, I would
suggest keeping up a schedule as much as possible. Wash your face, get dressed, eat
regular meals, and go to bed at a regular (and decent!) hour. Not only will this sense of
routine keep you motivated, but I firmly believe that the maintenance of normalcy will
come as a comfort in these uncertain times.
- Keep looking on the brightside.
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I know it’s easy to become overwhelmed with the negatives right now, but in the name of
our mental health, it’s important to continue to look on the brightside. For example, I hate
commuting. Because of my office’s work from home policy, as well as the University’s
decision to move classes online, I don’t have to anymore! Additionally, I’ve been
meaning to start studying for the LSAT for weeks now. Because of the increased free time
I will have, I’ll finally have the chance to start. So, rather than worry and panic, I
encourage you to try and find at least one opportunity that these times will offer you.
I hope you all are doing well in the wake of recent events and developments. Make sure
you reach out for help here if you are experiencing difficulties with your mental or physical well
being. Stay safe everyone, we’re all in this together!