Part 3: How To Stay Sane During A Global Pandemic: Tips, Tricks, Hacks, and Facts

Great to see you again! For more advice, check out my last two articles.
Many teenagers and young adults are struggling to adjust to living in quarantine and trust me, it isn’t easy. Here are some helpful tips that might keep you from losing your mind.

Breathing exercises– According to Newport Academy, 32% Of all American teenagers have an anxiety disorder of some sort. Getting your breathing under control can help you relax when you’re feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or anxious. They can even help you sleep better at night. –Breathe deeply, inhaling through your nose. All the while, making sure to bring your elbows back, expanding your chest. Hold for 5 seconds. Now, slowly exhale through your nose. Repeat as needed.

Physical and emotional awareness checks– Sometimes you’re so focused on your own stress and anxiety that you lose awareness of not only your physical surroundings, but your mental state and your emotions as well. –Take a minute to ask yourself these questions: What are my dreams and goals? What is my biggest strength? What is my biggest weakness? What makes me…me? These can all help you understand yourself better, even if you think you know everything there is to know about yourself. Understanding how you feel, what you value, and who you are plays a big part in your emotional health. 

Easy sleep tips – More than likely, you’re awake and thinking about stuff when you should be asleep. The National Sleep Foundation states that over 87% of high school students get significantly less sleep than the recommended eight to ten hours. Sleep is a very important variable for a teenager’s mental and physical health, as well as the growth and development of the brain. – Avoid taking naps during the day. By staying awake during the day, you are able to get your sleep schedule back on track.

Coping Methods– Are you struggling to deal with your emotions? Well, you’re not alone. Many Psychologists have stated that more teenagers today deal with depression or anxiety than ever before. – Maintain a daily routine with specific times for eating, sleeping, working, and free time. Getting into a routine isn’t always easy. Having a general time and place for everything you do in your day, removes an entire layer of stress. You won’t need to struggle to make time for  everything, once you’re in a routine that works for you.

Organization tricks and hacks– Staying organized is a great way to keep yourself motivated. Your surroundings can do a great deal on your mental state, as well as increase productivity. – Prioritize when you’re cleaning. Try to start in one place and work your way around. Don’t overwhelm yourself with every chore that needs to be done. Start small and move on once you’re finished.

*National Suicide Hotline: 800-273-8255*
*Crisis Text Line: 741741 (text BRAVE)*

These are just some of the ways you can stay sane during a global pandemic. Please remember, YOU ARE NOT ALONE! As much as you might be struggling, there is always a way to make life, just a little easier 🙂