Everyone of us are aware about the global pandemic which is caused by novel Corona-virus named COVID-19. Though Corona-virus is not a new one, the latest mutation which is believed to originate from Wuhan province of China spreads rapidly causing pneumonia. Even some prominent leaders are addressing it as " China Virus" which china has condemned. Followed by the pandemic declaration by WHO many countries has stepped in and have announced lock-down except few countries like Sweden who believe their citizens are self-disciplined to follow the social distancing and personal hygiene without imposing curfew. The COVID-19 spreads through droplets, since there is no vaccine  the only way to prevent contracting the deadly virus is by maintaining social distancing, washing hands frequently etc.. Enough of it, as all news channels worldwide are broadcasting news, analysis, prevention, myths about corona all through out the day. 

Many lost their jobs(special daily wages labors, domestic helps, online deliveries, agriculture etc..) due to the pandemic. In US alone 7 million have registered for wage benefits as they lost their jobs. Consider a country like India with huge population, the number of jobless will be enormous. Anyways every government have announced their stimulus package to help the affected and their economy. Many of us work from home, hoping that the pandemic will be over soon. Almost every country has crossed 20-25 days of lock down.  One of the neglected part is psychological issue faced by men, women and children as a result of confinement during lock down. Confinement has caused helplessness, boredom, anxiety among the public, disturbing the psychological equilibrium . Through the post we will talk about how to cope up with the psychological or Mental Health during the lock down . 

Acceptance of the situation:  First and foremost is that we have to accept that just by getting frustrated we cannot change the lock-down. It will continue as long as the virus is active and a definite date cannot be given. Also, the lock-down will not be lifted overnight but will be eased only over a period of time.  The governments will be very careful to avoid resurgence, as no one can afford another 40 days of lock down. Once you accept the fact, life will be lot more easier. Your brain will not keep you poking or make you uncomfortable in confinement. The experience shared by the COVID-19 affected patients are quiet scary. The suffering they had  been through will force you to agree the fact that confinement at home is far better.

Keep away from white noises and Rumors: This is very important to maintain you mental Health. White noise distracts a lot. White noises at this point of time is the analysis other than official sources who keep talking about recession, depression and many more unwanted stuff. Also rumors makes us confused. Usual rumors during this lock-down period are about the effects of corona, unauthenticated medical remedies etc... Keep away from white noises and rumors. Watching news  and Social media makes one depressed due to repetition of the same points and not being conclusive. Newspapers or official twitter handles are the best rather than visual media, as the later gives verified news or authenticated news.

Keep the mind engaged:  "Empty mind is devil's den". To keep the mind engaged, lets turn back to old school method. Read books, listen to music, share the household works, gardening, play board games like monopoly, Ludo, Carrom board, snake and ladder and any old Indoor games. These board games not only reminds of our old memories but also help develop and strengthen relationships. We have been cursing our hectic schedule for not spending valuable time with family, having food together etc. Its time to fulfill the desire of spending time with family.  

Maintaining the physical health: Lets remember the Greek proverb " A Sound mind is in a Sound body" which means if you need a strong mental health you need a strong body. Maintaining the physical health during the lock down period is very important too. Start doing exercise for at-least 30 minutes a day which will boost your morale and helps in maintaining the physical health. It would be even more interesting if you could persuade your family members to join the exercise routine. Sunlight and fresh air is also important to maintain the physical health. We can use terrace, balcony  to get sunlight and fresh air. If you don't have terrace or balcony keep the rooms well ventilated. Don't forget to have enough sleep of 7-8 hrs as we tend to watch movies till late nights. 

Lets follow the simple steps, keeping ourselves safe and improve our mental health. 

1. Acceptance of the situation

2. keep away from rumors 

3. Keep the mind engaged

4. Maintain physical health

Many of the readers might be following many innovative ideas to keep yourself engaged during the lock down. Share those in the comments so other could also benefit.