Much has been said about the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Countless lives have been lost, global economies are teetering on the brink, and it seems like nothing would ever be the same again.
As it turns out, the virus is not yet done. As health protocols continue to force many people to quarantine themselves, another of the pandemic’s ugly heads reared itself: deterioration of mental health.
Months after the virus hit, people are beginning to feel the effects of the isolation required to limit infection. Some are resilient, while others are less so. Fortunately, those who need help can turn to integrative medicine specialists like the Grewal Center for relief.
How Does Isolation Affect Mental Health?
Humans are social animals. Our default condition is to achieve a state of communion where we are connected to one another. Beyond food, shelter, and clothing, we need human interaction to live a full life.
The measures needed to limit the spread of the COVID-19 virus also prevents this exactly. You have to limit your time outside and leave the house only when it is necessary. When you do go out, you must not get closer than six feet to another person. Everyone is wearing a mask, turning friendly faces into anonymous beings.
As if the loneliness from isolation is not enough, people still have to deal with the anxiety that the pandemic brings. The number of cases continues to pile up with each passing day as scientists are still finalising the tests for a vaccine. Countless people have lost their jobs, and it looks like this will go on for at least the coming months. This is arguably the worst situation possible for people’s mental well-being since the last world war or The Great Depression. The silver lining is that the world survived both and will surely endure this current crisis.
How to Nurture Your Mental Health Amid the Social Isolation
One way to deal with the isolation is to consult with specialists. Grewal Center and other facilities have trained professionals that specialise in integrative and functional medicine. Their philosophy of holistic treatment for the mind, body, and spirit will lead you to the most effective path towards health, wellness, and improved quality of life, pandemic or not.
What sets integrative and functional medicine from other methods is that practitioners focus on the person and not just the condition. They cultivate a respectful and caring relationship with each of their patients. With the latest techniques, they try to uncover the complexities of your mental health issues and strengthen your body’s natural healing mechanisms. Each treatment is personalised, depending on your unique situation and predisposition. This puts you in the best position to overcome the challenges you are faced with, which is unique and complex.
Aside from consulting with wellness specialists like Grewal Center, there are small steps you can take on your own towards stronger mental health. One is to take advantage of technology like video chat. Keep in touch with loved ones using platforms such as Skype. Stay in the loop and update yourself with important events in the lives of your friends and family.
In between video chat sessions, you can try exercise and meditation. These activities are proven to boost endorphins and reduce stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline.
