1. Acknowledge your feelings and know that you’re not alone in this
The disruption to jobs and personal lives, and the uncertainty caused by unexpected circumstances, can cause distress and feelings of social isolation.
These are all a natural part of our body’s protective mechanisms and should never be ignored.
Acknowledge your fears by taking time to get in tune with yourself, and work through the root cause of your emotions.
If it helps, ring up a friend or loved one as a sounding board.
2. Apply for jobs daily, but don’t let it take up the bulk of your time
You never know when the economy is due to pick up again or when demand would open up positions in your favour. So continue to send in your resumes, a couple a day, but try not to stress about it.
If you’re worried about your finances, consider tapping on the SkillsFuture Jobseeker Support Scheme, which provides temporary financial assistance of up to $6,000 over six months to Singaporeans who are involuntarily unemployed.
The scheme provides temporary monetary support as you complete tasks in your jobseeking journey, giving you room to focus on your next career move without the added financial stress. It’s designed to motivate active job searching, engagement in career coaching, and continuous upskilling.
3. Establish a daily routine
Plan out your time by making a list of daily tasks, before a new week begins or every morning before you delve into the day’s activities.
Set realistic tasks that includes easily accomplished ones with others that might take more time.
This helps motivate you as you, derive a sense of accomplishment and feel in control of your life, when tasks are ticked off and completed.
4. Limit the time you spend reading online news
Allocate a certain time in the day to update yourself on the latest news. But set a time limit to your consumption..
In that time spent, take a conscious effort in minimising negative news intake, and balance it out with feel-good news reports too.
5. Schedule hangouts with your friends
We are social creatures and we all crave interaction and intimacy. Take intentional steps to build up the relationships around you.
Stay connected with friends and loved ones through calls and hangouts, whether through in-person or virtual.
For group hangouts, try some virtual team bonding activities to get the ball rolling.
6. Enjoy a workout
Staying home got you feeling restless and lethargic? Time to get those legs moving and engage in workouts!
Exercise keeps you healthy, and also has a significant benefit towards improving your mental health.
A plethora of resources on keeping fit and healthy can be found on the web, from aerobic and cardio exercises to doing yoga or Pilates to relax, and more.
Invite your friends to join you in exercising together
You’re not alone — support is within reach
Caring for your mental health during this period is even more crucial than before. Do not be afraid to ask for help or reach out.
We don’t have to feel alone in such circumstances. Take the first step — and know that support is available if you need it.
