When you watch TV, you see corona. When you turn on the radio, you hear corona. When you scroll on social media, it's still about corona.

I mean, when is it going to end? Only God knows.

What you see and hear from the news can get overwhelming at times. This challenging situation we're in can make you feel scared and worried. It's normal because this virus is no joke.

But while it's important to stay alert and be informed, sometimes you need to pause and breathe.

Our lives have already changed in some ways over the period of months. We haven't seen our families and friends, stopped our normal daily routines, adjusting with the new "social distancing" and being isolated at home. 

Little did we know, these changes have already affected us emotionally and mentally. 

Effects of Home Isolation

Social deprivation can lead to serious psychological and physiological effects such as:

• Anxiety attacks
• Stress
• Trouble sleeping
• Loss of appetite
• Depression
• Paranoia

These adverse effects are serious and it's something we can't just brush aside. Always keep your emotions in check and be watchful of the stuff you feed in your head.

Good thing there are ways to combat emotional stress and we believe you can put a STOP to it. 

Ways to Take Care of Your Mental Health at Home

The constant news and social media updates may cause you to feel fearful and worried. People talk about their opinions and worries online which we tend to absorb. If it's already giving you anxiety, try to stop. Remember, their worries shouldn't be yours. Separate facts from rumors and avoid fake news at all cost.

Isolation at home made people try to stay productive as much as they could. Today they could be baking, the next day they're gardening and then you see yourself at home feeling less accomplished. While it's good to keep yourself busy, know that it's also okay to be less productive unlike how you did yesterday. Everyday is different, so don't be too hard on yourself. Take it slow.

Feeling lonely? Call your family and friends. Just because you're stuck at home doesn't mean you have to wing this alone. If you feel like you need someone to talk to, air it out. It's beneficial to your mental health to share your feelings and be heard. And also, your Escape family is here for you, too. Check us out on socials, like our Facebook Group and Instagram Community - where we’ve built a family and can share your thoughts/opinions anytime. We are always here for you!  ❤

Our daily routine may have changed but it's okay. We can always keep our days structured and interesting by keeping a healthy lifestyle. Pay attention to your body's needs. Eat a healthy meal, exercise regularly, maintain a regular sleep schedule, avoid excess alcohol and practice relaxation methods such as breathing exercises.

At times like this it's understandable to feel paranoid and overwhelmed. Instead of shrugging it away, acknowledge these feelings. Remind yourself that it's okay to feel this way and then move on. Move forward and reach out to others who are going through the same situation. Turn those feelings into love and support others to fight negativity.

ONE LAST THING..

If things get difficult and serious, it will be helpful to talk to mental health services for counselling and proper medication. 

Have a list of their numbers that you can call and do not try to self medicate especially if you have a serious medical condition. 

Stay encouraged and keep the faith. And remember, we're ALL IN THIS TOGETHER. 

XO,

Jocelle Marañon-Rebollar

Escape Swimwear Team