According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the Covid-19 outbreak affected the mental health of millions of people worldwide, leading to depression, fear, worry and stress, among other conditions.

In the first year of the pandemic alone, global prevalence of anxiety and depression increased by a massive 25 per cent. These particular conditions have persisted past the outbreak and continue to manifest themselves.

While these should be expected responses to perceived or real threats, leading to uncertainty, many people continue to exhibit signs of vulnerability as they grapple with new realities of life such as remote working, unemployment, online schooling and increased cost of living.

Emotional distress is a state of mental anguish that can take a wide variety of forms. Photos/Net

Many people across the world are experiencing emotional highs and lows in the post pandemic world and more than ever, depression, anxiety, mood swings have become a common occurrence.

If it is not you, you know someone going through these situations. However, wellness experts say we can deal with emotional highs and lows effectively, if we put our minds to it.

Feeling emotionally distressed and overwhelmed all the time? Here are seven things you can do to help you cope with emotional highs and lows that can lead to depression and anxiety.

Talk to someone you trust

Talking to someone you trust, whether a friend, family member, or colleague, can be of great help. You may feel better if you are able to openly share what you are going through with someone who cares about you. Through talking you can find solutions to whatever is bothering you.

Be in charge of your body and mind

It is possible to train yourself to become in charge of your mind and body which will also help handle sensitivity and control emotional ups and downs. A good example is doing yoga. According to experts, when you exercise and train your body, making your body subservient in terms of your stretches, contractions, holds against gravity; you don’t just become in charge of your body, you also become in charge of your mind. Your body behaves the way you want to, your mind can also behave the way you wish to.

Embrace nature

Embracing nature is another way to feel peaceful and rewind. Step outside and observe nature. Climb hills, visit forests, rivers, lakes, oceans, open spaces, gardens and plantations and enjoy the serenity they bring.

These activities will get you in tune and in balance with yourself, cleanse your negative emotions, destructive and disruptive thoughts, and bring a sense of rhythm in you.

Look after your physical health

Taking care of your physical health helps improve your mental health and well-being. Be active for at least 30 minutes daily, whether that’s running, walking, yoga, dancing, cycling, or even gardening. Eat a balanced and healthy diet. Make sure to get enough sleep.

Do activities that you enjoy

Try to continue doing the activities that you find meaningful and enjoyable, such as cooking for yourself or your loved ones, playing with your pet, walking in the park, reading a book, or watching a film or TV series. Having a regular routine with activities that make you feel happy will help you maintain good mental health.

Steer away from harmful substances

Don’t use harmful substances such as drugs, alcohol or tobacco to cope with what you’re feeling. Though these may seem to help you feel better in the short term, they can make you feel worse in the long run. These substances are also dangerous and can put you and those around you at risk of diseases or injuries.

Read and learn

Reading and discovering can be therapeutic. Help free yourself of constantly swirling thoughts by reconnecting yourself with stories you read, watch or discover. Find new books, watch a new movie, documentary and learn new things that will excite your brain.