Hi The Writing Monk
I'm a Melbourne gal feeling pretty triggered today. I think most people are spilling over into complete intolerance and a little fury, regarding the state governments highly questionable stuff ups with COVID. My heart truly goes out to all those who are impacted in the way of mental health.
I tend to agree with you regarding this '5 day' lock down. Any decisions and announcements made by the government that tend to be questionable are naturally questionable for good reason. My question, 'What does the state government hope to achieve in only 5 days?' I imagine a lot of people are asking that same question. I am hoping and wishing for everyone's sake it is only 5 days and we are all pleasantly surprised.
I believe 2nd lock down had us look at the nature of people, how we naturally work and how we suffer through a lack of certain things in life. I found it challenged me greatly. It's been some years since I left depression behind me and it wasn't until that last lengthy lock down in Melbourne that I realised many of the factors that help keep me out of depression. Excitement, adventure (adding new ventures to life), basic social interaction, simple everyday things to look forward to as well as choice are just a handful of those mental health strategies that can help make a positive difference. With a lack of these factors, it's amazing how our chemistry and perception can take a turn. Also, with a lack of things to do, there is more time to think. For some people, thoughts can be torturous.
Wondering if you were able find a couple of new strategies for managing your mental health during last lock down. Maybe a couple of things that made even a slight difference. Personally, I became a bit of an emotional eater and it shows :) I found joy, peace, excitement, adventure, happiness and entertainment in food, amongst other emotions. It was the 'wrong' types of food; those 'occasional' snacks became regular everyday ones. Although good for the mind and soul, not so good for the body. it's such a challenge to find new ways to manage our mental health and emotions, ways that can be a little outside the square. I've found that 'outside the square' can sometimes be full of the differences we may never have dared try before. Outside the square's where courage tends to exist. More courage and less food for me this time 'round.
What about you? Can you think of anything outside the square that could possibly reform or redefine you this time around?
:)