With a new wave of COVID-19, more businesses are going back to working from home. Whether you’re new to working from home or it’s not your first rodeo, working from home has its pros and cons.
In some cases, not commuting, being able to control your workspace, and being around your family or pets can be pros. However, many people miss the socialization that comes with work. If you have kids or other family members, it may be difficult for you to focus. Not only that, your mental health may suffer.
Here are some ways to maintain your mental health.
Eat Right, Exercise, Sleep, Avoid Alcohol and Drugs, Socialize
Let’s get the basics out of the way. Avoid ordering takeout and try prepping healthy meals ahead of time. Pour yourself a cup of black coffee from your own coffee maker instead of ordering a sugary latte. Eating right can improve your mental health.
Also, get moving! Exercise helps regulate your sleep cycle, releases feel-good chemicals, and improves your mental health overall. If it’s cold outside and it isn’t safe to go to the gym, do some crunches at home, or order fitness equipment such as an exercise bike.
Get 7-8 hours, or however many you need, of sleep. While working from home may mean a less strict bedtime routine, stick to going to bed and waking up around the same time. Wind down an hour before bed. Get off your computer and take a hot bath or something that is relaxing. If you are unable to sleep, do something relaxing until you are tired.
While you’re home more, avoid drinking excessively, or abstain altogether.
Finally, keep in touch virtually with friends and coworkers in order to improve your mental health overall.
Get Sun
The days are getting shorter, and when you work from home, you may not have to go outside. The lack of sun can lead to seasonal affective disorder or the winter blues. Go outside and get some sun, or raise up your blinds.
Stay on Schedule
As we said, if you’re working from home, you may not have as strict of a schedule. However, it’s important to have a schedule and stick to it. Allot some time to take a break, but do not get distracted. Use filters to avoid going to time-wasting sites for too long.
Listen to Music
The good part about working from home is that you can usually listen to your own music. Music, especially instrumental or ambient music, can get those productive juices flowing. Plus, good music can be a mood booster.
Set Boundaries
If you live with your children or a roommate, they may think you’re available now that you’re home. It’s important for you to establish that when you are working, you shouldn’t be bothered unless it’s an emergency. Perhaps set time to talk to your roommates or kids during a break, but don’t break the boundaries.
Get a Pet
If you have the resources to do so, a pet can be a good way to improve morale when working from home. Cats can make you more productive, and a dog cuddling up next to you while you work can make you feel more productive, too.
Seek Help
It’s not a good time for anyone. From having existential crises to worrying about our loved ones or ourselves, there are many reasons why you should speak to a health professional. Websites such as Mind Diagnostics allow you to have a diagnosis and treatment plan. Your mental health is something you shouldn’t lose. Stay healthy.
Author’s Bio:
Marie Miguel has been a writing and research expert for nearly a decade, covering a variety of health-related topics. Currently, she is contributing to the expansion and growth of a free online mental health resource with Mind-Diagnostics.org. With an interest and dedication to addressing stigmas associated with mental health, she continues to specifically target subjects related to anxiety and depression.
