BUTTE - The long pandemic, mixed with disturbing events, both at home and nationally, can wear on our mental health.
“We’re connected socially and emotionally, and we’re really connected in this trauma and grief that we’re experiencing right now,” said Butte mental health counselor Lisa Choquette.
Since March, people have been under the strain of the pandemic. Last week, there was a tragic public suicide in Butte that was followed by a riot in the nation’s Capital.
These times can be tough for anyone, and even harder for those with mental health issues. That’s why it’s important for people to be aware of their emotions.
“Checking in with your emotions is so important and letting yourself feel those, and figuring out where they’re coming from and looking at what we can control the best we can and also reaching out for support for what we can’t control,” said Choquette.
In a time of social media, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by events that are beyond your control. It’s recommended to remember the positive things in your life.
“For a person to look at what they do have control over, things like what is going well, even the smallest positives are happening right now or am I noticing in my personal life,” she said.
And another way to get through these long and dreary winters, is to concentrate on a good diet and good physical health, which can help improve your mental health.
“The rule of thumb is to try to limit alcohol intake during stressful times and avoid excessive caffeine or sugary food, and really looking at what we can do, even when we’re not feeling our best, looking at what makes us feel good when we are feeling our best and trying to start some of those behaviors,” said Choquette.
And never hesitate to reach out for professional help.
