The global Covid-19 pandemic has distorted the normal rhythm of life. Board members of the homeowner associations and condo associations are now dealing with deficits in their budgets, overworking, the loneliness associated with social distancing, and missing loved ones.
As a community leader, how you cope with mental health issues affects the wellbeing of the members also. In addition, neglecting your mental health reduces your productivity and can lead to depression, burnout, or worse. That said, it's important to create time for self-care and seek advice from healthcare providers. Let's explore a few coping strategies to safeguard your mental health.
Mental health can deteriorate because of disconnecting with people or the community. Talking to other members of society can improve your mood or create an outlet to share what's affecting you. To that end, joining or reconnecting with your community can jumpstart the journey to better mental health.
Here are a few ideas on how you can stay connected:
If you can change the environment — for example, the economic situation — you may cope better by equipping your body to deal with stress. Taking care of your body can improve your alertness, mood, and general psyche.
Here's a brief breakdown of how to take care of your health:
You probably have a lot on your to-do list, which can be overwhelming. Instead of planning to complete all the tasks in one sitting, it's prudent to stagger the tasks evenly in your day or week. In addition, you can break down complex tasks into small but manageable tasks.
It's also critical to list and meditate about what you're grateful for at the beginning of the day. Instead of putting your thoughts and energy into negative experiences, display an aspect of optimism.
Mental health can aggravate if your body is not getting enough rest. During rest, the body and brain muscles recover and regenerate. Some methods you can use include sleeping for 7-8 hours daily, doing a hobby, e.g., gardening or word games, or a five-minute break to wash utensils. You can also take deep breaths or exercise to enhance relaxation during work breaks.
The work of a board member is an addition to your regular schedule. The extra stress, workload, and worries can damage your mental health. It's therefore essential to practice self-care.
RealManage is here to help. We have a dedicated and experienced team that'll enhance the smooth management of your community. Visit our website to request a proposal.