Staying away from the constant hustle and bustle? It's not easy in today's world, right? You might be wondering, how can I stay stress-free? Well, since the pandemic hit, everything has changed. Mental health has become more important than ever! Studies have shown that the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted mental health, increasing levels of anxiety and depression globally due to stressors like isolation and uncertainty [1]. Sticking to old methods that don't apply anymore just doesn't cut it. It's truly time to consider fresh approaches. So, let's dive into some lifestyle hacks that can actually do wonders for your mental wellbeing.
1) Start a Conversation
Have you noticed that you've been seeing fewer faces lately? Yep, the pandemic really has taken away our casual chats. Social interactions are crucial for mental health, and spending time with friends can help alleviate feelings of loneliness and anxiety [2]. So, why not make an effort to strike up a conversation with the people you encounter? Even a quick chat with a stranger can brighten your day. Just remember to wear your mask!
2) Let Go of Worries
Are you often caught up in worrying about what others think of you? If you are, it's time to let that go. Honestly, what truly matters is how you feel, not what others think. Research indicates that excessive worry can exacerbate anxiety symptoms, making it vital to focus on self-acceptance and personal growth [3]. Their opinions are not your business. So, free your mind from that constant worry about others' perceptions.
3) Crack Jokes
Here's a fun fact: being a little silly can really lift your spirits! Humor has been shown to act as a natural antidote to stress, promoting relaxation and reducing tension [5]. Go ahead, tell some goofy jokes when the mood strikes. And if that doesn't suit your style, just laugh heartily at a joke you hear. It's all about finding joy in the little things!
4) Get Out and Commute
Missing your daily commute? With so many of us working from home, our travel and outings have drastically reduced. Engaging in outdoor activities can enhance mood and decrease feelings of anxiety [4]. Try taking a short ride around your neighborhood to shake things up a bit. Just remember to follow the local restrictions!
5) Relive Good Memories
The pandemic has given us more time at home, which can be a blessing in disguise. Use this time to revisit your childhood memories. Nostalgia has been linked to improved mood and can help reduce feelings of loneliness [2]. Singing along to those old songs can bring back fond memories. If you're shy about singing, don't worry — just listening to them can help relieve stress.
Living a tension-free life can be quite challenging, especially during these times. However, by incorporating these lifestyle tweaks, you can make a positive impact on your mental health. Remember, cultivating good mental health habits is crucial!
Content published on this website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice, or treatment by a trained physician. Always seek information from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers regarding any questions you may have about your symptoms and medical conditions for a complete medical diagnosis. Don't delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read here.
References:
- Hernán López-Morales, Rosario Gelpi Trudo, Matías Jonás García, Macarena Verónica Del-Valle, Matías Yerro, Fernando Martín Poó, Ornella Bruna, Lorena Canet-Juric, Sebastián Urquijo. Depression and anxiety in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic: A 6-waves longitudinal study in the Argentine population.. PubMed. 2024.
- Syed Muhammad Baqui Billah, Shefat Ahmed Sayef, Serajam Munira Mahjabin Nur, Md Mahfuzur Rahman, Sanjida Khanom Chowa, Abida Yasmin, Mosa Sanjida Akter, Sayma Shajnin, Asif Ahmed Zaman, Mahmudul Hassan Banna. Fear of COVID-19 and mental health status among the medical students of a selected medical college in Bangladesh.. PubMed. 2024.
- Kenneth Fosu Oteng, Lauren J Wallace, Medard Kofi Adu, Kwabena Fosu Lartey, Joshua Arthur, Samuel Dwomoh, Ruth Owusu-Antwi, Diana Nunana Tsali, Rita Larsen-Reindorf, Vincent I O Agyapong. Prevalence and Correlates of Likely Anxiety Disorder in Ghana During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Evidence From a Cross-Sectional Online Survey.. PubMed. 2024.
- Wenhao Kong, Zeyuan Pei, Ziyan Guo, Ran Xu, Jialu Zhao. Relationship matters: Using machine learning methods to predict the mental health severity of Chinese college freshmen during the pandemic period.. PubMed. 2025.
- Arvind Nongpiur, Bhupen Barman, Kimberly Syiem, Andreecia Mn Mawiong, Naveen Anand, Arvind Nune. A cross-sectional study of the mental health burden among COVID-19 survivors.. PubMed. 2023.