5 Ways To Take Care Of Your Health During The Coronavirus Outbreak

News about COVID-19 is dominating the world at the moment. It’s a frightening time, but the best advice for every person, for now, is to stay at home and work on your general health and immunity. That said, being at home for long periods of time can have negative consequences, affecting your mental health and creating some unhealthy habits.

Right now, all aspects of your health and wellbeing are important and are recommended to be a priority. Here are some top ways to take care of your health during the coronavirus outbreak.

Be Aware and Follow Reputable News Sources

There are many opinions and statistics flying around the internet and television media right now concerning the present world situation. Because we need to stay informed in order to stay safe, we must find reputable news sources. Additionally, it’s important to not overwhelm yourself with too much news that could feed anxiety and stress.

I recommend limiting your exposure to the hard reports to once a day and try to focus on other normal aspects of life as you can. Here in the US, we have federal as well as local guidance to help stop the spread of coronavirus. This information is being presented via government websites, daily news/press conferences, and some local news stations. Of course, each state has their own protocols right now. It’s imperative to know what your governor has mandated at this time. Do find reports that help you to stay informed but also give you some sense of peace.

Stay In Touch with Your Healthcare Provider

If you experience any symptoms of illness at this time, it’s best to call your doctor instead of turning up at their office or the ER. Each office may have varying protocols to keep everyone safe. Be prepared with a mask, gloves, hand sanitizer, all of which can be purchased at your local store or safely online at stores like unigloves. Though your primary physician is likely the best source during the crisis, you could contact other specialists like an ear, nose and throat doctor if your regular doctor is overwhelmed. 

Your doctor will let you know what next steps to take if needed for virus symptoms as well as other conditions you might have. More than likely, if you have cold and flu symptoms, he/she will have you stay at home and care for yourself there. Do keep your doctor informed about any changes in your health or adverse symptoms.

Eat Well and Stay Active

This mandated shelter-in-place order many of us are experiencing affects our day-to-day activities such as going to the gym, social gatherings, and even grocery shopping, but that doesn’t mean you can’t stay healthy and active at home.

There are some amazing home workout options available to help you stay fit and lean when you can’t exercise outdoors or with a class. Doing simple things like taking a walk around your neighborhood, playing with pets, or dancing with your family are all simple and even fun. Try to do some type of physical activity every day.

Also, remember to eat as well as you can. I know that the grocery situation is getting pretty tough in some areas, so do the best you can to find healthful foods. And, though we all want comfort food right now, including snacks and sugary foods, I recommend limiting these things. Focus on creating balanced meals that provide the most nutrition. Being unable to go out to eat may give you an incentive to get creative in the kitchen. It’s a great time to involve the whole family in some fun old-fashioned meal prep. 

Take Care of Your Mental Health

You need to be monitoring your mental state along with physical health right now. Social isolation can greatly affect confidence, hope, and motivation. This is primarily because we are social creatures that need to be with others for optimal mental and physical health.

Obviously, during this time, it will be harder to fulfill our social needs though not impossible. Stay in touch with friends and family via phone, social media, Skype, etc. and let them know how you are doing regularly. This action will help you feel connected and accountable should your mental health get to a dark place.

If you are experiencing any symptoms that are too much to handle, do also let your doctor know. During times like this, depression, anxiety, and other mental health problems could become more intense. It’s OK to ask for help.

Keep Your Home Clean

Keeping your home clean and organized will help you prevent illness, while also improving the surroundings. Keep on top of daily tasks to prevent things from piling up and getting out of control. And, since everyone is home right now, it’s a great time to split up chores and projects so it’s not a burden on anyone.

It’s a difficult time for everyone right now, but the good news is that we’re not alone. We can make it through this if we don’t panic and calmly take care of ourselves and our families. Get serious about your health by being aware, eating well, staying active, and talking to your doctor if you get sick. Though it’s challenging, keeping up with as many normal activities as possible will help to combat the negative thoughts and feelings associated with the crisis. 

**** This post is strictly informational and is not meant to replace the advice of your healthcare provider. Women’s lifelink, it’s owners, administrators, contributors, affiliates, vendors, authors and editors do not claim that this information will diagnose, treat, or improve any condition or disease.