Mental Health During This Time: My Current Self-Care Process

These past few weeks have been tiring.

I’ve been stressed by the spread of COVID-19 and its resurgence as cities and states re-open. I’ve been anxious about the protests around the country and around the world and whether they would translate into action.

I’ve been overloaded by resources, materials, webinars, and more.

Even with all of this, I can’t imagine being a black person going through this time. 

Black communities are fighting for survival. COVID-19 has disproportionately affected black communities in America. Protests and demands for action stem from centuries of abuse, disenfranchisement and more by society. I know my struggles and stress are nothing compared to what my black brothers and sisters are facing.

But I do keep reminding myself that it is okay to prioritize mental health along with my need to stay safe and demand justice. It is okay to take a break from news stories, social media, and resources. Here are a couple of ways that I have been able to process everything that is happening:

  1. Journaling/Live Your Emotions: I’ve been journaling for a while now and it has been a great way to process my stress/emotions and really live them. It is important to not dismiss or diminish what you feel, but fully live them and understand why you are feeling this way. This type of processing allows you to fully understand yourself and your emotions.

  2. Taking a Break from Social Media: When the endless notifications and difficult conversations, drain and tire you. Take a break. Avoid social media for a day. Reschedule a conversation with your family. They will be there when you are ready to come back to it.

  3. Having a Stress Relieving/Energizing Activity: I have several activities that I take on that provide positive energy and relieve stress. Drawing, reading, exercise, and learning languages are my go-to activities. Finding or doing the activity you know energizes and destresses you is a great step to take as well.

  4. This is a Movement, Not a Moment: This process and work is ongoing and will continue past just the next few days or weeks. This will be work that you will be doing throughout your life. Therefore, recognize that this is a marathon, not a sprint. Work at the pace that is comfortable for you. 

My ultimate message and advice is this: figure out the schedule, work and limits that you can commit to. This may change due to what needs to be done. As long as you stay active and continue to stay active, there is no reason that you can’t take breaks and prioritize your mental health during this journey.

by Kartik Ramkumar (IG @kartikramkumar)

Kartik Ramkumar