Mental Health Insights from a Nurx Doctor

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and since Star Wars Day (May the Fourth) falls within it I thought I’d start talking about mental health by sharing this mindfulness quote from The Phantom Menace:

“Qui-Gon Jinn: Don’t center on your anxieties, Obi-Wan. Keep your concentration here and now, where it belongs.

Obi-Wan Kenobi: But Master Yoda said I should be mindful of the future.

Qui-Gon Jinn: But not at the expense of the moment.”

The pandemic has forced many of us to face unprecedented challenges that have impacted our mental health. We have all been affected in some way by the repercussions of COVID-19, and you should not feel like you’re alone if you are suffering from symptoms of anxiety or depression. Now, more than ever, we need to de-stigmatize mental health conditions.

We also need to focus on self-care, prioritize our mental health, and exercise coping strategies that will help us build the strength to overcome this tough time. Here are some small but impactful things that you can do to prioritize your wellness, mental well-being and reduce stressors:

1. Be kind to yourself and others — golden rule. 
2. Exercise. Any little bit counts. 
3. Focus on things that bring you joy and happiness.
4. Prioritize taking care of yourself and others. Don’t procrastinate on this. 
5. Connect with people and build a support system.
6. Change up your surroundings.
7. Eliminate any stressor you can.
8. Focus on what you can control.
9. Make time for self-care.
10. Set boundaries and balances for your home and work life.

It is possible to control and overcome mental illness, and coping strategies go a long way in helping tackle the added challenges that this last year has presented us. You are not alone. If self-help strategies don’t suffice, please seek additional support from a mental health provider. We are in this together.

This blog provides information about telemedicine, health and related subjects. The blog content and any linked materials herein are not intended to be, and should not be construed as a substitute for, medical or healthcare advice, diagnosis or treatment. Any reader or person with a medical concern should consult with an appropriately-licensed physician or other healthcare provider. This blog is provided purely for informational purposes. The views expressed herein are not sponsored by and do not represent the opinions of Nurx™.