With Coronavirus still in our lives and lockdowns in effect in many parts of the world, looking after not only our physical but also our mental health seems now more important than ever.  As many mental health experts suggest, building resilience, an ability most useful especially in times of anxiety and uncertainty is crucial.  There are many ways to do so, so let's get to it right away by looking into some practical tips:

1. Connect with other people

Make good use of social media, phone calls and of course, video calls.  You may not be able to be physically close to with your loved ones, your relatives, your colleagues, your friends, but technology allows you to connect in so many other ways. Remember that we live in an extreme situation, and that this is for your own protection and for the protection of others.  And when you go to the supermarket or the drugstore remember to chat a little bit with the people behind the counter. As human beings, communication is all we've got, especially at hard times.

2. Exercise as often as possible and try out relaxation techniques

Whenever you can, try to get out of the house, even for a quick stroll round the block, since during most lockdowns you are allowed to leave your house for daily exercise. A change of scenery and some fresh air is always a good idea.  Don't stay with your pj's all day long, even if it seems comfy. It would be good to see other people too, even from a distance. Walking, running, cycling - you name it.  Also, do not forget to relax.  Stress and agony never helped anyone.  You could take a long bubblebath, listen to your favourite music, breathe in-breathe out. If you think it will help you relax, try it out.  Learn a new language, watch a doumentary, or try a virtual tour of the Athenian Acropolis; watch something beautiful, learn something new, and de-stress.

3. Think of your past experiences and accept what you cannot control

The current situation is something our generation has never encountered before. But we are coping, or at least we are learning how to get through it. Since March we slowly but steadily learn how to cope and adapt, because humans are naturally resilient and adaptive beings.  There are things happening in this world that are beyond our control.  Therefore it would be a good idea to accept that fact of life, and practice acceptance and compassion. Give yourself some credit for how well you have coped so far, remember difficult experiences of the past and think of how you were able to get through them; well done, keep up the good work! It may sound like a pat on the shoulder but 'this too shall pass'.

4. Give yourself a break

So far you have dealt with some demanding things in your life, and right now you are coping with a global pandemic.  It is a new, challenging and unprecedented situation.  It is ok to feel anxious or perhaps even desperate at times.  It is normal and even healthy not to feel well all the time.  Talk to your family, or the people in your life who care for you. Caring is sharing. Share your feelings, share your experiences, your thoughts.  Support yourself first in order to be able to support others. We are people with feelings, not machines, and we are under a lot of pressure, so go easy on yourself, it is absolutely essential sometimes. 

5. Sometimes it's ok to ask for help

Right now humanity is going through quite challenging times. A worldwide pandemic is no picnic exactly and some days can be quite difficult and stressful. There are support lines and you can talk to people who are there to help you.  Mental health experts, psychologists, therapists, or even your GP could listen to you and provide professional support.  Don't hesitate, if you are feeling overwhelmed. We are capable of great things but sometimes we have to take it one step at a time. Don't deprive yourself of the right to feel worn out with what is currently going on in the world. After all, we are only humans, right?

Be well - stay safe - wear your mask, and remember; Christmas is coming, and even a pandemic can not cancel it!