The COVID-19 pandemic has infected many people’s lives with extra stress. Most of us are already dealing with stress from work, school, family, and other areas. This added level of strain has been more than challenging for everyone. Even though life has continued, it is still difficult to keep making adjustments and figuring out the new normal. Because of this, extra importance should be placed on self-care.
According to research from Kullinen and Merilainen (2011) and Lauria (2020), stress can lead to negative mental health effects including feelings of incompetence, emotional fatigue, loss of interest in academics and activities, and depression. Effects of stress on the body include physical fatigue, sleep problems, and potential drug and alcohol use. Stress can also put additional strain on relationships and cause people to increase isolation from friends and family. If you are noticing any of these effects, it may be time to take a break and care for yourself.
To put a stop to stress, pick a self-care activity to do daily!
Yoga
Taking a walk
Talking with friends
Taking a nap
Bubble Baths
Play Video Games
Manicures/Pedicures
Read a Book (not a textbook)
Pet a puppy
Ask permission… then pet a cat
Take mini trip to the beach
Watch a movie with friends
Get a coffee
Go for a drive
Sing or listen to a worship song!
Gardening
Go to the gym
Cook dinner or bake a dessert
Game night
Get a massage
Fishing
Hiking
Volunteer at an organization
Watch your favorite television show
Unplug for a weekend
Pray
Attend Church (in-person or online)
It may seem simple, but taking a little time out of each day for self-care can be easier said than done. Setting reminders or writing self-care time in your planner can be helpful to set aside time. Taking a break and engaging in an activity that you enjoy can improve your productivity and decrease burnout. We can all feel stressed at times, and with this unique situation we all find ourselves in during 2020, enjoying the little things is more important than ever.
References
Kuittinen, M., & Meriläinen, M. (2011). The effect of study-related burnout on student
perceptions. Journal of International Education in Business, 4(1), 42-62. http://dx.doi.org.ezproxy.regent.edu/10.1108/18363261111170586
Lauria, S. (2020). Tackling burnout and its impact on students – The Statesman. The Statesman. Retrieved 8 October 2020, from https://www.sbstatesman.com/2019/10/08/tackling-burnout-and-its-impact-on-students/.
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