Clinical psychologists Dr. Steven Taketa and Dr. Analu Sing, with UH West Oʻahu’s Counseling Services, will offer weekly mental health tips to students, faculty, and staff to cope through COVID-19 and these trying times:
Many studies have demonstrated that the more hours people spend on social media, the greater the likelihood that they are to be adversely impacted by symptoms of anxiety and depression. As we are being directed to “socially distance” ourselves to prevent the spread of COVID-19, it is important to be mindful of sustaining your psychological well-being.
Research has identified for many years that a healthy diet and exercise can be essential components to keeping your mind and body healthy. In addition to eating right and engaging in physical activities, we encourage you to take time out of your day or week and put down your smartphone, log off of social media, and explore ways to connect with your loved ones without the use of electronic devices.
If you live alone or are quarantining yourself, try connecting with others via FaceTime, Skype, or other online resources (not social media). Believe it or not, authentically connecting with positive people can actually boost your immunity and help you to manage stress.