How to Maintain Your Mental Health in the Election Cycle, Pandemic & Beyond: 4 Tips From NBA Wife & Activist Achea Redd by Achea Redd

Mental Health
3 years ago

How to Maintain Your Mental Health in the Election Cycle, Pandemic & Beyond: 4 Tips From NBA Wife & Activist Achea Redd

The 2020 election cycle is stressful for everyone on both sides of the aisle, and when combined with the isolation and anxieties of the coronavirus pandemic and the economy, mental health is suffering in a big way. I know firsthand how difficult it can be, especially for people of color.

I suffered from atypical anorexia throughout my teens and was diagnosed with depression and Generalized Anxiety Disorder in 2016. The stigma and shame associated with mental illness led me to hide my conditions from the world and my loved ones, which exacerbated my issues to the point of a full-blown breakdown, even contemplating suicide. Thankfully, I got help and am now not only thriving, but helping others, especially women and POC, make their mental health a priority.

Here are some tips for coping with anxiety, depression and stress right now:

  • Limit Media: To be completely honest it has not been the easiest, but I think limiting social media and news intake to just once a day or every other day would be first. Also, when we do take in news, no matter the medium, don’t do it right before bed or first thing in the morning. Maybe mid-day or dinner prep time work for you, but not right when you wake up or right before bed.
  • Know Your Limits: Understand what you can control and what you can not control. The world as a whole is very uncertain, however, you can only do what you can do and no more. The moment you start to think otherwise it becomes a downward spiral.
  • Practice Self-care: Do something nice for yourself everyday. Whether it’s physical movement, wine, a bath, reading a good book with some tea or watching a funny movie. Make a habit of filling your own cup so that you don’t look to others to do that for you. I started doing this about three months ago and it has made a world of difference in my life.
  • Remove Negativity: Eliminate all negative energy in your circle. The world is a cluster of negativity right now. The last thing you need is to have to navigate through that in your own life.

It is not uncommon to have a mental illness. More people have them than we would think. Whether it is a moment of panic or depression, it will not always be as bad as it is right now. It will get better.

The content on 30Seconds.com is for informational and entertainment purposes only, and should not be considered medical advice. The information on this site should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease, and is not a substitute for professional care. Always consult your personal healthcare provider. The opinions or views expressed on 30Seconds.com do not necessarily represent those of 30Seconds or any of its employees, corporate partners or affiliates.

Take 30 seconds and join the 30Seconds community. Inspire and be inspired.

Related Products on Amazon We Think You May Like:

30Second Mobile, Inc. is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

Struggling With Negativity & Pessimism? 5 Ways to ​Tap the Power of Positivity During Troubled Times

Stress in America 2020: Survey Signals a Growing National Mental Health Crisis From Pandemic, Health Care, Economy, Racism & Election

Kid's Mental Health During Coronavirus: Fostering Resilience in Our Children Through Body Talk

Suicide Prevention During the Coronavirus Pandemic: 6 Strategies From a Suicide Prevention Expert

Julie Rose
Great tips, much needed. ❤️
bepositive
Limiting media is key because you can only take so much. More positivity, less negativity, please. 🙏
Elisa Schmitz
Thank you for shining a light on mental health, Achea Redd . The more we talk about it, the less stigma it has and hopefully more people will get the help they need. Welcome to 30Seconds. We look forward to learning more from you!

join discussion

Please login to comment.

recommended tips

Gluten-free Diets: 3 Things You Need to Know Before Going Gluten-Free

Food Allergies & Coronavirus: A Registered Dietitian's Guide to Food Insecurity During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Skip the Potato Chips: How to Prep So You Grab Healthier Snacks!

The Health Benefits of Cinnamon: Why You Need to Sprinkle This Spice on Everything