The novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic is keeping everybody home. Communities, even whole countries, are under quarantine. No one is allowed to go out except for a supply run of the basic necessities to help contain the spread of the disease. The fast-paced life as we know it is now at a standstill, and it's a big adjustment.
"A lot of people, including myself, have been feeling unsettled and anxious because of everything that's happening," mom of two Bianca Gonzales, who has been a vocal advocate of mental health, said in her latest Paano Ba Ito vlog series. It's crucial now more than ever to look after one's mental health.
The book author and TV host sought advice from life coach Pia Nazareno-Acevedo, the founder and CEO of The OneCORE, on how to keep calm and stay centered during this time. She and Bianca discussed the importance of focusing on what matters, the positive things, and also be a positive spark to others.
ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW"The last thing we want to do is feel like we can't rely on ourselves," Coach Pia said. Focusing on personal anchoring is so important right now, especially if you're taking care of others. "How you are relating with them and explaining to them the context really affects the whole house," she added.
What you can do to keep calm and carry on under quarantine
"When you are at peace with what's going on, the better for everyone around you," Coach Pia stressed. Here are a few tips to help keep your mind and heart afloat amidst this global health crisis.
1. Take a step back and make time for yourself.
You are with your loved ones more hours than before now, but don't forget to take time for yourself every day. Pause, take a deep breath, list down the things that will help you stay sane in the next unusual weeks head. This will help you "make sure that you are giving from an overflow," Coach Pia said.
Similar to a glass of water, it's best to fill it up to the brim before we give to others. You can only give what you have. "Kung binigay mo para sa iba yung reserba na dapat sa'yo, you're actually compromising who you are. In doing so, when you're sharing yourself with others, you're sharing a compromised version of you," Coach Pia explained.
CONTINUE READING BELOWwatch nowTo those who are seeking that deeper understanding of yourself or others, Coach Pia suggested that being under quarantine gives us a lot of time to catch up on things that really matter.
2. Focus on what's working, what you're doing right, and on your own uniqueness.
It's a blessing that social media is easily accessible for updates, and everyone can connect remotely. Still, Coach Pia warned: "Fear is an energy that can be absorbed." When you receive information, try not to focus on what you're afraid of, what you're not doing right, and what other people are doing to manage this situation.
"It's nice to get tips from other people, but when it comes to specifics in your home alam mo kung ano yung mas priyoridad ng iyong pamilya," Coach Pia said. That may be time for activities for the kids, work, or for your partner, etc. at home.
3. Weakness is getting in your own way or other people's way — you can do something about it.
Everyone else is better at something, and each individual reacts and responds differently to every situation. Coach Pia advised looking at weakness as getting in your way or of others' way because it makes it actionable. You can do something about it or improve it.
ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOWMany times people get in their own way when they become too overwhelmed by negativity or by the uncertainty of getting through the anxiety brought about by the situation. Sometimes, it's also assuming or expecting that other people will think or react and respond the same way as you during this situation.
"Be calm amidst ambiguity," Coach Pia advised. There will always be unpredictable times, and this is where personal anchoring is vital. She recommends letting go of the most minute details or the smallest decisions that people are making. Instead, create a safe presence for others to be themselves.
Watch Bianca's Paano Ba Ito? episode below:
Check here to check if you're on the verge of parental burnout, plus tips on how to deal. Don't be afraid to reach out if you are feeling anxious, helpless, or despondent. If you need someone to talk to:- Crisis Line +633 893-7603 / +63 917 800-1123 / + 63 922 893-8944
- Manila Lifeline Center at +632 896-9191 or +63 917 854-9191
- Department of Health's 24-hour suicide prevention hotline Hopeline +632 804-4637 / +63 917 558-4673 and 2919 for Globe and TM subscribers
- You can also join SOS Philippines on Facebook, a support group founded for survivors of suicide loss and Filipinos undergoing mental health ailments like depression and bipolar disorder.
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