The COVID-19 pandemic has caused many of us to live in a state of fear.

This health crisis is not something many of us have experienced in our lifetime and it’s not something we know much about. So, not knowing how to cope with the unknown future is expected.

As we struggle to stay in isolation, many may be experiencing a lack of motivation, anxiety, worry and depression, which takes a toll on our mental health.

Although places will begin to open little by little, nothing is guaranteed, and we will have to continue to be careful and take care of not only our physical health but our mental health too.

Taking care of your mental health can be hard, especially during times like these, but it’s vital.

Here are some things that help me and are proven to help improve mental health.

Read a book.

Reading is my top thing to do when I need a break from society and my thoughts. There’s no better feeling than when you sit down and become fully engaged in a book. Your imagination will let you escape the world around you and live in the story.

Listen to music.

Music is another way to escape your reality and bring your thoughts to a new place. It can also help you feel like you are not alone.

Have you ever put on a song and the lyrics are exactly how you feel, and you just never knew how to put them into words? It can be relieving to feel like someone finally understands you and you’re not alone in your emotions.

Keep your hands busy.

Cook a new recipe, do some artwork, maybe learn how to knit or play an instrument. Being engaged with hands-on activities will help you focus on what you’re doing at the moment rather than what is going on around you.

Write.

Whether you write poetry, short stories or in a journal, writing is a good way to get your thoughts out and express yourself in a creative way.

Hug and play with your furry friends.

Animals are known to help reduce stress and calm anxiety within just five minutes of petting and playing with them. Playing with your pet will be a good distraction and allow you to observe and live in the moment.

Spend time outside.

Whether you take a walk down the street or sit on your front steps, just being outside in the sun can boost your mood and reduce stress.

Make a list of your future plans.

What will you do when we are free from this? Where do you want to travel next? Who do you want to go see in concert? Do you have any ideas about what you want to do with your friends the next time you see them?

Don’t only write them down. Set dates and times. Mark events in your calendar. Although you can’t do these things now, you will eventually, and having something to look forward to is what will keep you going.

The next time you’re feeling down about the state of the world right now, try doing something that will give you a break and take your mind off of things.