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Why emotional and mental health awareness is important?
It’s a vital part of your life and impacts your thoughts, behaviors and emotions. Being healthy emotionally can promote productivity and effectiveness in activities like work, school or caregiving. It plays an important part in the health of your relationships, and allows you to adapt to changes in your life and cope with adversity.

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FIVE WAYS TO IMPROVE YOUR MENTAL HEALTH DURING PANDEMIC

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1. Maintain physical activity and healthy eating
Keep in mind that the benefits of any kind of exercise go a long way for your mental health, and nutritious foods can improve your mood and help you manage stress.

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2. Limit your consumption of media
Overconsumption of the news may be impacting your mental health, try limiting your media intake by setting a daily or weekly time limit, or scheduling it for a specific time and avoiding it outside of that time window. Not only is this likely to reduce your stress and anxiety levels, it will also free up your time for more enjoyable activities like reading or engaging in your favorite hobbies.

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3. Stay connected with your loved ones and local community as much as possible
Although we may not be able to see our friends and family in person right now, there are many platforms available for connecting virtually. Whether it is by phone, texting, social media or video chatting, connecting with loved ones is important for your mental health. Take comfort in knowing that those you love may be dealing with some of the same struggles you are, and by reaching out to them you could be helping them cope as well.

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4. Be mindful of your sleeping patterns
Limit or restrict screen time in bed, reduce caffeine intake throughout the day, and do not drink caffeine in the afternoon, start doing something relaxing about an hour before you go to bed like taking a bath, reading, stretching, or meditating.

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5. Discuss your concerns with a professional
Many people who were already in therapy are continuing to video chat with their therapist online, and others still are utilizing the resource of online therapy for the first time to manage the stress of the pandemic.