COVID-19 AND YOUR BRAIN HEALTH

The COVID-19 pandemic is a rapidly evolving situation. The uncertainty of how long the pandemic could go on for, who’s most vulnerable, how the disease will affect you, the fear on contracting the virus, among other things, is causing affecting people globally. 

COVID-19 has changed the way we interact with other people. From isolation and quarantine to exposure and recovery, the pandemic has placed heavy strain on people across the world. Working from home, the lack of physical contact, home-schooling and other changes to daily routines are lifestyle changes that take time to adapt to. And these changes have put a strain on brain health. 

In these unsettling times, it’s more important than ever to take care of your brain health and wellbeing. The changes in lifestyle can be challenging when even trying to keep track of time of day may be difficult. People are also worrying more and this increased anxiousness can lead to poor sleep, poor concentration and other well-being challenges.

While vaccines are now being given across the world as medical science responds to the pandemic, it is important to know that you can also do something to help yourself and others. To help prevent the spread of COVID-19, wear a mask, wash/sanitise your hands, avoid poorly ventilated spaces and practise social distancing. Use these practical self-care and coping tips and techniques to help boost your immunity and brain health. While it is important to take precautions and protect the most vulnerable, the large majority of people who get COVID-19 can stay at home and get better without hospital treatment.
Flexibility and adaptability are key to staying on top of your brain health in this time of social distancing and other unique pandemic-related stressors. Just know that it’s okay to feel anxious, stressed, worried, scared or concerned. Ask for support when you need it, so you can learn to adapt and move forward.

The sections below cover general and tailored recommendations to help build brain health resilience, increase your ability to deal with life’s challenges and improve your well-being.