Caring For Your Mental Health During a Pandemic

Melissa sent this excellent information to me from brainmdhealth.com
This is excellent practical advice that we can all implement. While there is no Scripture in this, look closely, and I bet you can find Biblical truth and principles that could apply. For example, taking captive every thought and vain imagination that exalts itself against the knowledge of God (2 Cor. 10:5). Or thinking only on things that are true, honest, just, pure, lovely or of good report, virtuous and praiseworthy (Phil. 4:8). And let's not forget that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit! You are fearfully and wonderfully made (1 Cor. 6:19; Ps. 139) That is not an excuse to abuse your body with over-processed, sugary "food" with no nutritional value. Rather, we should be good stewards of the incredible "earth-suit" that God has given us to carry our spirits around in. Don't let yourself sit around and binge on foods that are scientifically proven to create stress and depression. Eat wisely, and give your body what it needs to fight off infection and provide you with the best mental health possible. Take a look at each of these things suggested by this article, and see how many you are putting into practice in your daily life!
How To Care For Your Mental Health During A Pandemic 
STAY CONNECTED TO YOUR LOVED ONES
Since most people are hunkering down at home, this is easier than ever.
KILL THE “ANTS” (AUTOMATIC NEGATIVE THOUGHTS)
Automatic negative thoughts can infest your mind during a pandemic, but you can learn to control them. Avoid making drastic assumptions and question your thoughts. You don’t need to believe everything you think!
STICK TO REPUTABLE SOURCES FOR INFORMATION
Credible sources for reliable information include the CDC, WHO, Mayo Clinic, and Johns Hopkins.
BE CAUTIOUS ABOUT SOCIAL MEDIA AND 24-HOUR NEWS
Avoid going down the rabbit hole on your Facebook or Twitter feed and don’t stay glued to the TV. Limit your exposure and set specific times to check for updates.
TALK TO KIDS ABOUT WHAT IS HAPPENING AT THEIR LEVEL
Be calm and reassuring when talking to kids because they often pick up on what you do and how you act more than the words you say.
WHEN QUARANTINED OR SELF-ISOLATING, STAY ACTIVE
Use your time wisely with brain healthy activities. Read a book, learn something new, do crafts, do a video call with loved ones to stay connected, and watch a comedy (research shows that laughter can be a great immunity booster). 
GET OUTSIDE (IF YOU AREN’T SICK OR QUARANTINE)
Exercising in nature—but not in or around groups of people—can brighten your mood. 
TAKE DEEP BREATHS
Take a few minutes of every hour to practice deep breathing. Simply inhale deeply for a count of 6, hold for 3, then exhale slowly to the count of 3. Repeat the process 5 to 6 times.
FUEL YOUR MIND AND BODY WITH THE NUTRIENTS IT NEEDS
Adequate intake of vitamins, micronutrients and minerals will help keep your immune system strong.

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