8 Tips to Improve Your Mental Health While Continuing to Respect Physical Distancing Guidelines

Public health and mental health experts are rightly concerned that months of isolation and physical distancing could cause mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress, in some Canadians under COVID-19 restrictions. Fortunately, there are plenty of positive and effective mental health strategies and preventative measures you can put in place to continue to adhere to physical distancing guidelines.




Here are some tips to boost and strengthen your mental health, which can help you cope with the difficulties of the current situation:

  1. Maintain and develop your social connections.
    The World Health Organization (WHO) has replaced the term “social distancing” with “physical distancing” to emphasize the importance of maintaining social connections for mental well-being and health*. The Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) advises having "old-fashioned" video calls and phone calls for daily communication with family and friends*, and reconnecting with friends or relatives you haven't seen in years. In addition, you can chat in person with friends, family, and neighbors from a safe physical distance of two meters.

  2. Be physically active.
    A brisk daily walk, or other exercises, can help improve mood and reduce anxiety by releasing chemicals in the brain called endorphins*, which promote well-being, say experts at the Mayo Clinic.

  3. Calm Your Mind
    Meditating, listening to music, watching a beautiful sunset, or spending quality time with a canine companion can reduce anxiety and emotional discomfort. Petting a dog can also lower blood pressure and heart rate*, reports Harvard Medical School.

  4. Take care of yourself.
    Get enough sleep, eat healthy foods, and spend time in the fresh air to feel less stressed*, recommends. Establish a new daily routine to be more comfortable with change and uncertainty, and do things you enjoy to relax, have fun and recharge your batteries*, both physically and mentally, suggests the director from the Department of Psychiatry at McGill University.

  5. Limit your exposure to negative news
    While it's important to follow evolving public health recommendations, the University of Toronto advises limiting your daily media exposure* if the news is getting you down. Look for stories that give hope or create a sense of belonging.

  6. Call on your resilience.
    Leverage skills you previously used to deal with life's difficulties to manage your emotions and adapt to the challenges of the pandemic*, recommends the WHO.

  7. Show kindness.
    By helping others, you can push your own concerns* into the background and make a difference in their lives, suggests Psychology Today magazine. Acts of kindness can also give you a sense of control and open your heart*.

  8. Use virtual counseling or support services.
    If you're feeling overwhelmed, consider seeking additional support through virtual psychological support services, or a video or phone consultation with your family doctor*, advises
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