How to ensure good mental health during COVID: tips from Prague professionals

Experts say that its important to continue your existing care regimen. Many mental health professionals, like everyone and everything else right now, are moving their practices online. Their colleagues in Prague and the Czech Republic are no exception.

She says that aside from following the government’s instructions, practicing acceptance is an important step to take in order to ensure good mental health. “Accept the current reality and do what you need to do in terms of self-care, care of loved ones, and work. Stay focused,” she says.

And while it may be tempting to spend the day reading news updates, Dr. Gonzalo says our state of mind can suffer as a result. “Reading or watching the news too frequently can lead to unhealthy catastrophising, she says, which in turn can lead to imagining negative future scenarios. She suggests checking the news once or twice a day, and sticking to trusted sources.

Of course, entirely eschewing technology isn’t practical advice and disconnecting could leave you feeling adrift. Dr. Gonzalo recommends staying connected with friends and family.

Whitmore adds that trying to look at the positive aspects of the situation could actually help those who face mounting fears to remain focused. 

She recommends reconnecting with your family in ways that weren’t practical before due to time constraints (do game nights, puzzles, etc.) or tackling things you always wished you could do if you only had the time — reread your favorite book, try or new hobby, or study Czech.

“Some of these things may sound a bit cheesy,” says Whitmore, “But it could be truly helpful to try and look outside of the box and use this very special chunk of time where other options are strictly limited.”