This post was researched and written by Ella Chen, a junior at The George Washington University majoring in Human Services & Social Justice and Political Science.

As we navigate the pandemic and its impact on our usual routines, we are all facing stressors that can take a toll on our well-being.

Our mental health is not just about whether we feel happy or sad. It is more like the “temperature” of our emotional, social, learning and thinking states. It has a circular effect: it both includes and influences our psychological, social, and physical well-being. That is why it is so important to regulate our mental health “temperature” and ensure it doesn't run too low or too high. This is an important part of coping with all the changes brought about by COVID-19.

During this uncertain time, you may not feel like getting out of bed or going outside. It might be hard to sit down and focus or finish work sometimes. That's okay. We're in the midst of a pandemic where a lot has suddenly changed.

However, it is important to prioritize your mental health. When we don’t pay attention to our mental health or check-in with ourselves, we might start ignoring signs that we need help. This may include support from someone else.

Here are four helpful practices you might want to try to check your mental health temperature (safely from home).

1. Start a journal
   • Tracking your day-to-day mood can give you time to pause and reflect on how you're feeling, especially if you've noticed that you're particularly upset or depressed. It's also a good way to record important milestones and positive, exciting things that are going on in your life. Taking a few minutes every day to understand where you are and what you're feeling can be grounding during a time where things can often seem out-of-control.
2. Take time away from screens
   • It may seem like all of life is taking place on a screen. All of your friends are online and many of your classes too. But, taking some time off from computers and phones can be a helpful way to clear your mind and spend a few quiet moments by yourself. These little breaks can provide much-needed breathers during busy days and encourage you to check-in once again with yourself to assess how you're feeling and what you need.
3. Make a list of soothing strategies
   • Sometimes, when stressful situations or emotions arise, it can be difficult to access the skills we've developed to cope. Creating a physical list of soothing activities (that you keep close on hand) can be a helpful visual reminder. Anything can be on this list as long as it is soothing to you. When you sense yourself becoming stressed out, or even just need a break, check your list! This includes breathing. It may sound silly but pausing to take a few deep, slow breaths can help soothe you in a difficult moment.
4. Ask for Help
   • Requesting help is not easy, but it is sometimes necessary. If you're starting to feel overwhelmed, reach out to someone you trust. Create a network of friends and others (teachers, extended family) who you can fall back on for support.

Making time for your mental health should always be a priority, but especially now. Take care of yourself. Your mental health matters.

Check out these related resources:

• Relaxation Techniques for Navigating Stress 
• Caring for Self and Others: Tips from Teens on Practicing Self Care
• Depression: Resources you can trust