I am concerned, I’ve been thinking about how to improve mental health during quarantine.  I have been watching social media, media, and just conversation of people, and I am concerned about the collective mental health of my community worldwide. I want to be transparent. In 2003, I was hospitalized and relegated to the psychiatric ward. This happened 14 days after I gave birth to my baby daughter. As I was going about my chores, client projects, and homeschooling for my son this week I realized that I have been “under quarantine” before. I have been “under quarantine” and I want to share my thoughts about this with you.

It is my hope and expectation that this quarantine will be ended and we will all once again be able to fellowship with one another. However the reality is that people are really upset about COVID-19 and until this foe is vanquished we will be in quarantine indefinitely. This blog post shares with you what I learned from being stuck in the psych ward against my will for a long time.

• This is a perfect time to reflect, write, and pray
• Showering and dressing and looking your best is critical
• Watching a bunch of TV shows is not ideal
• Exploring my creativity was very satisfying
• Exercise is important
• Rocking out to your favorite music is important, and relaxing to some classical music as well.

]During this quarantine it is important to be mindful about how to improve mental health.  Isolation and relentless news consumption is not healthy and can trigger many of us to descend into a downward spiral mentally. This is why it is important to remember that we have been blessed with the internet, streaming, and video conferencing. To diminish feelings of isolation it is important to gather virtually with your personal and professional community.  Your mental health is very important. Pursuing things that you enjoy is very important. Keep a journal where you can express your true feelings about the quarantine, COVID, racism, your mental health, family, job and more. I have found that journalling is an effective private sounding board with which to express myself in a safe and private environment.

I would love to hear how you have been engaging in self care and cultivating a healthy outlook. How have you been working to improve mental health for you and your loved ones?[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]