The realities of the COVID-19 pandemic and quarantine are already enough to bring anyone down, but for those struggling with mental health issues, this period of isolation is an even more challenging time. Across the world, thousands of people have been laid off and loved ones are dying. For students, the cancellation of graduation hits particularly hard. Many aspects of our lives have come to an abrupt halt as we are no longer able to see close friends or relatives. With many businesses closed and nowhere to go, loneliness is inevitable. As we spend an indefinite amount of time with no one other than ourselves and our thoughts, feelings or emotions that may have been suppressed with various distractions are rising to the surface.
While many may feel these emotions and turn to negative coping mechanisms, it is important to to take care of and be nice to ourselves. Negative coping mechanisms come in myriad forms, from doing nothing at all (never showering or never leaving your bed), to doing too much (overexercis