The South African Anxiety and Depression Group (Sadag) has launched a daily Facebook Expert Live Chat from 1pm to 2pm until 4 April, where psychologists answer questions and provide tips to the public on mental health.
Counselling psychologist, Nkateko Ndala-Magoro was the guest on the live chat on Wednesday, 1 April, and the frequently asked question was: How to deal with depression while in isolation?
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With the lockdown and regulations that the public needs to adhere to, many people, especially those suffering from mental health issues may feel that their depression is creeping in.
Ndala-Magoro provided the following tips to help deal with depression in this difficult time:
- Stay active and get some oxygen to the brain, even in a confined space.
- Be creative and create moments to journal
- Read or enrol in an online course
- Gain a new skill
- Keep in touch with your support system
- Listen to motivational talks – There are many free ‘webinars (online seminars) being advertised or teachings and motivational talks that if you can listen to online if you have access to data.
She encouraged everyone to take it one day a time and not to be hard on themselves, “Staying motivated at a time like this is hard. Do what you can and do not overwhelm yourselves with to-do lists as this time, it might worsen the anxiety.”
She concluded, “Also, talk to your therapist. Most psychologists are working at this time because they are essential services.”
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