By Duaa Raheel (Senn Senior)
With the worst of the pandemic likely coming, as well as Chicago’s harshest winter months, staying positive can be challenging. But it is important to have a positive outlook during a crisis to our mental health and well being.
During this time we know how important it is to be socially distant, but thanks to technology, we can stay in touch digitally. Being away from people can greatly decrease your optimism, but when meeting in person isn’t an option, you can opt for being connected through social media platforms.
When you’re connected with your friends it helps lighten up your mood and encourages your friends to feel the same way, since they are also digitally with you.
Another way to have a positive aspect is to have faith. Faith not in a religious sense only but a mutual faith that you’ll make it through this hard time and you will survive. This is much like having hope in the future. You can help others by talking about future plans with them.
If you believe in the future then your future will keep you strong in the present.
Another way to have a positive aspect is to be aware. Be thankful for where and how you are; be grateful that you aren’t in a worse situation than it already is. This type of mindset encourages you to have a positive outlook on the situation you are in. Looking for a silver lining is one of the many ways to stay positive.
Another way to have an optimistic outlook is to take advantage of excess time caused by the pandemic. For example, with all this time we can start on a new activity and develop new skills. Not only does this distract you from the current events but it also enhances your skills by learning something new.
Lastly, you can do small acts of kindness. An example of this would be to help out essential workers such as mail delivery men by setting up a small chips and drink basket by your mailbox so whenever mailmen come to deliver packaging they can take a snack or two. This can help because seeing others happy can make you happier as well.
