Our mental health has always been important, however, historically insufficient emphasis has been placed on it. Undoubtedly, the Covid-19 pandemic has pushed this often underestimated part of our wellbeing to the forefront as a result of months of isolation, separation of family members and friends, and ultimately, the complete absence of human interaction. For many, working – and even “going to school” – in the comfort of our homes was a welcomed novelty at first, but as the months of isolation rolled on by, birthdays and important holidays were missed, get-togethers became non-existent, and something as simple as a hug was almost impossible, that novelty soon wore off.

As isolation decreased and we had to re-integrate back into life, however life as we have known to be pre-COVID is very different in 2022. The reality is that some companies have started expecting employees back in the office, schools have been fully opened and thus there may be a be a generalised anxiety about re-integration into a changed society.

If you, like many, many of us out there, fall into an impenetrable slump once in a while, there are very simple steps you can take to give your dopamine and serotonin levels an added boost.

Simple tips to improve your mental wellbeing

Connect with family and friends

Now that isolation is a close to distant memory, you have every reason to spend as much time as feasibly possible with family (and that even includes the in-laws!). Something as simple as eating dinner as a family can give your mental and social standing a boost.

Stay active

The benefits of staying fit are two-fold; not only can you improve your fitness levels but it can boost your self-esteem and encourage you to set yourself goals. If you choose to exercise outdoors by, for example, going for a run, walking your dog (time spent with your fur family is just as rewarding as with your human family), spending time in nature may also have a positive effect on your energy levels and even reduce depression.

Get back into your hobbies or find new ones

When your mood hits an all-time low, it’s easy to lose interest in the things you previously enjoyed doing. Hobbies improve your self-esteem by encouraging you to develop skills and master them. Reigniting your love for your old hobbies will bring about feelings of “nostalgia”, while new hobbies will spark an interest in a new field with which you can broaden your knowledge.

Give back to the less fortunate

It’s easy to get consumed in your own life and there’s nothing wrong with that! But if giving back to others will give you a greater sense of purpose, then by all means, give it your all.

Practice mindfulness

Mindfulness, meditation, and gratitude are the simplest forms of improving your mental wellbeing. Although it can be done anytime and anywhere and doesn’t cost a cent doesn’t necessarily mean it’s easy. Giving your thoughts 100% of your attention takes practice and if you’re a habitual over-thinker, this will take time.

Bottom line

Maybe mental health and mental well-being hasn’t always been at the forefront of your mind, so to speak, but the Covid-19 pandemic has certainly had a positive effect on the world’s attitude towards it. Some shy away from the subject due to unfair stigmas traditionally associated with it but your mental well-being should be as important to you as your physical health.

If you develop any feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, or despair, contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible so that they can refer you to a mental health specialist, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist, or even group therapy.

The lenmed Group is a world-class chain of Private Hospitals that brings quality healthcare to communities across Southern Africa.