It is very easy for small stressors to develop into clinical anxiety and depression if the mental health of our students is ignored. There are numerous ways one can stay mentally and physically fit during such unprecedented times

Prevent Anxiety Stressors From Building Up During Online Lessons with these 5 tips

Inculcate a healthy lifestyle

A healthy lifestyle can be promoted by regular sleep cycles and a healthy diet. Online lessons have led to an increase in screen time which deteriorates both sleep quality and sleep duration. Therefore practicing good “sleep hygiene” by turning off electronic devices at least 15-30 minutes prior to going to bed and taking breaks from technology during recess time of school is vital to ensuring good mental health and peace of mind. 

Reach out to external/internal school counselors 

Students will be given guidance on how to cope with psychological issues such as peer pressure, fear of failing an exam, depression, and anxiety of not being able to complete assignments on time. Regular sessions with school counselors will encourage students to develop certain problem-solving skills and empower students to improve their mental health, wellness, and set academic and personal goals. 

Journaling

School-going students should be encouraged to practice journaling. This is the #1form of self-therapy. Maintaining a mood diary that records symptoms of when one is feeling low, anxious, and irritable can help give emotions a physiological release and give one a fresh perspective on any irrational thoughts and insecurities. For instance, art journaling (doodling, painting, and drawing) is one emotional outlet for stress release. 

Getting access to good nutrition 

Poor nutrition and low mental illness are highly linked together. Test week and assignment submission dates can lead to a build-up of poor nutrition causing gut issues and hormone problems that do lead to anxiety and depression. Therefore, consulting a nutritionist and altering diet plans in a way that helps improve your energy and sleep habits is recommended. 

Exercising daily

Exercising regularly can help boost mental and physical fatigue by increasing and regulating appetite so eating at the right time is encouraged to prevent stress eating. Following a strict health regime by exercising daily can increase issues of self-esteem and self-worth and encourage students to get into a habit of setting and achieving goals. Online workouts on zoom with friends and family are recommended as well as yoga and meditation to relieve stress for the body and mind.

Also published on Medium.