Reflections on Pandemic Life and Mental Health
When the world flipped into lockdown, I’ve felt a whirlwind of emotions—argh, what in the world is going on? The roller‑coaster of feelings hit us hard, especially when it comes to our minds.
Waves of Mixed Feelings
Like a lot of you, the ever‑shifting rules left me feeling like I was on a hamster wheel. Every new restriction felt like another traffic jam on a road I’ve been driving for years.
- Frustration because plans I’d been loo‑lo‑ving went out the window.
- Disappointed when dining out was banned—food out was my daily therapy.
- Anxious when news of rising cases and pandemic deaths ticked up my heart rate.
A Personal Fears List
My worry list got bumpy. I dread for my parents, friends, and especially those hustling in healthcare. At least now, no loved ones have caught Covid, but learning about others’ stories still makes me feel the jitters.
Silver Linings in the Dark
Turns out, my shy inner self actually rose to the occasion. My mental health, against the odds, has got better.
- I no longer have to endure forced social interactions thanks to limits on gathering sizes.
- I’ve turned the spotlight onto quality over quantity—only meeting the people who truly matter.
- Working from home cut the commute, giving me an extra hour of ZZZs in the morning—exactly what I needed before a chaotic day.
- Being distractions was a nightmare, but a quiet room made me productive.
When Things Go Out of Control
For the rare moments when my world shakes, I’ve drafted my own coping toolkit—snacks, rewinding to childhood playlists, or simply stepping out for a breath of fresh air. It’s the little things that keep the mental gears running smoothly.
Closing Thoughts
As World Mental Health Day approaches, I’m grateful to see how the pandemic has taught us what truly matters—our own well‑being, the people we’re with, and the small habits that help us survive even the toughest days.
Rekindling Old Passions
Remember those days when you could spend hours making friendship bracelets or weaving tiny beads into bright patterns? It’s amazing how revisiting those simple joys can lift your mood and remind you of the little things that used to bring you joy.
Getting Back in Shape (Without a Perfect Six‑Pack)
Like a lot of folks, I dove into the world of fitness and even tried a “Chloe Ting” workout series—yes, the one with the ridiculously catchy shorts that have everyone hopping around their living rooms. I did all the moves, sweat, heartbeats, and you can imagine the laugh. The only thing I didn’t end up with were the crisp abs you see on Instagram. The good news? Having a fun workout routine is great for both body and mind, even if the results aren’t perfect.
When the Dark Days Strike
Feeling gloom or depression? Trust me, you’re not the only one. Many of us are battling the same tough emotions, especially during hard times.
Simple Ways to Cope
- Talk it out – Choose someone you trust—a friend, family member, or a mentor—and share what you’re going through.
- Take a quick detour via helplines – Numerous free mental‑health hotlines are available, ready to listen whenever you need.
- Try online counseling – If in‑person visits seem daunting, seeking professional help online can be a practical, confidential alternative.
Remember, it’s perfectly okay to reach out. Taking that first step—whether it’s crafting a bracelet, a quick workout, or simply dialing a hotline—can be the difference between feeling lifted or stuck.
‘I felt very trapped and separated from friends’: Tan Thiam Peng, 35, AsiaOne journalist
Living Through the Lockdown: Heartbeats, Hibernation, and a Touch of Stretching
When the world locked up and I felt like a fish in a bag
- Work‑from‑home turned into a “home‑from‑work” nightmare.
- The dining bans left me with a craving for freedom that no pizza could fill.
- Feeling trapped? I felt it better than a hamster on a wheel—well, maybe just a bit more ominous.
Finding a silver lining (world‑class, if you will)
They let us exercise outside, and boy, did I run into it. In the early wave, I really hit the pavement, the trails, the park—my legs were practically shouting, “I’m back!” Once the city started offering a free online library of shows, I realized I was more than just a binge‑watcher.
Screen time boundary: not a friend
I’m not the kind of person who gifts shelves full of streaming posters. Watching a movie on a couch for hours feels like a lifestyle hazard—think of it as a GPS that keeps me in “home” mode.
Balancing load: how I keep my sanity afloat
- Tuning in to outdoor workouts helped the mental balance — the endorphins are the best therapy.
- Accepting that staying home isn’t a pampering spa retreat.
- Adapting like a shape‑shifter: the longer I stick around, the more natural it feels, but the distant horizon of travel feels like a mythical legend.
Quick “Uplift & Reset” Tactics for Anyone Feeling Cooped‑Up
Socialize wherever the universe gives you a chance—so much for strangers, but they’re still strangers. Keep breaking the monotony. Try a new routine, or simply swap your coffee shop with a brief park walk.
Bottom line: We’re all navigating a new, unconventional normal. Just remember that a healthy routine and a bit of exercise can keep the abyss away.
‘I was able to have more time to myself’: Catherine Ngiau, 20, student
When COVID Turned Into My Personal Therapy Session
Honestly, the pandemic threw me into a whole new world where self‑care became the bestseller of the season. With the whole work‑from‑home thing, I finally had a pocket of time that didn’t end with a meeting—time I could give to myself.
What I Gained
- New Hobbies – I tried embroidery, gardening, and even learned to bake the perfect sourdough loaf.
- Free Time – No more rush to catch the bus or cram into a cramped office.
- Mind Check‑in – Daily meditation sessions became my new ritual.
Where the Struggles Lurked
Not everything was sunshine. One of the biggest hurdles was my motivation for the gym. Back before the bubble burst, my gym routine was tighter than a drum, but the new rules made it feel like a lottery.
Booking Slots – It got trickier to find an open slot, especially when everyone was trying to squeeze in without a crowd.
COVID Concerns – The mere thought of walking into a room full of strangers felt like a villain’s plot twist.
My Takeaway
In the grand tapestry of the pandemic, I guess the silver lining was having a cushion of personal freedom to nurture my mental health. Though the gym lost a bit of its sparkle, the new hobbies and mental check‑ins definitely lit up my life. It’s not the whole story, but it’s a chapter worth sharing – with humor, heart, and a pinch of “I can’t believe this is happening.”
Keeping Your Head in the Game
When the gym doors closed, I didn’t let my motivation tumble. I hopped on the home workout train—no excuses, just sweat and a sense of pride that kept me on track.
Room‑to‑Workout Magic
- Set a routine that fits your schedule
- Use household items as weights—canned food or water bottles work wonders
- Change it up weekly to keep it exciting
Books: Your Escape Artist
Turning to reading turned out to be my secret weapon. It’s not just a pastime; it’s a mental reset button. When the pages flip, my mind slides into a world I’ve crafted—away from stress, straight into adventure.
Why Books Stick to Your Side
- Clear your head after a busy day
- Boost imagination and creativity
- Serve as a gentle reminder that “you” have a story worth living
Struggling? Let’s Brighten It Up!
If you’re feeling a bit off, picking up a new hobby might just be the ticket. No need for long‑term commitments—just a fun distraction!
- Try cooking, painting, or even learning to juggle (yes, that’s a thing)
- Chat with friends or family; sometimes, a good laugh is all you need
Remember, it’s all about finding what nudges you back into balance. Keep moving, keep reading, and keep connecting. Your mental health deserves the same love you give to your workouts and books.
‘Lethargic and tired’: Nabila Ghani, 25, AsiaOne social media manager
Feeling a Bit “Zonks” These Days
Today’s mood? Let’s just say “I’m a bit on the sleepy side.” It’s that all‑over‑the‑place, “lost” vibe that makes a cup of coffee feel like a precious, exotic treasure.
Mom’s Work Woes
My mum’s job is already tricky thanks to all the new restrictions, so watching her worry adds a few more needles. Even though we’re doing better than the average squad, it’s still a head‑scratch moment when she’s on edge.
How I Keep My Spirits Up
- Talking with my partner is like a secret super‑power. They listen, they laugh, and they keep me from spiralling into the boring routine abyss.
- I’ve taken to baking again—yes, the legal stuff that everyone loves. When the pandemic gave me extra time, it felt like a perfect excuse to get my whisk handy.
- Experimenting with new pastries has been a creative therapy. The toughest thing I’ve pulled off? A coffee bun that tries to out‑shine the famous “Rotiboy” ones. It was a close race, but I think I nailed the gooey, coffee‑meets‑ dough combo.
Why Baking Is My Backup Plan
Turns out, mixing flour, sugar, and a touch of imagination can bring a rush of satisfaction that no spreadsheet or email can. Even if the result isn’t perfect, the process feels like a comforting hug.
Takeaway
When the world feels a bit sluggish, I try to keep everything balanced: a chat with my love, a doughy adventure, and a dash of coffee excitement. It might sound simple, but it works—turning a lazy day into a recipe for cheer.
Step Out, Step Up: A Daily Shuffle for Your Mind
Ever feel trapped in that invisible box you called inside? It’s like living in a sitcom where the laugh track keeps playing, but nobody’s actually chuckling. The fix? Shake up your routine—on purpose.
Why the “One New Thing” Rule Works
- Break the monotony: Repetition can feel like a loop, so switching up even the smallest detail keeps things fresh.
- Boost mental freshness: Novelty tricks your brain into staying alert and happy.
- Add a pinch of adventure: A little surprise can lift your mood faster than your usual coffee break.
Daily Ideas That Won’t Break the Bank
- Take a brisk stroll around the block, pretending you’re a tourist in your own city.
- Spend a day at a grocery store you’ve never visited—maybe one that sells quirky mints or celestial pastries.
- Try a new food recipe or snack that’s as daring as your sense of humor.
- Swap the cafe playlist for a “feel-good” jam; your earbuds have never felt so alive.
- Photograph something that catches your eye—corners of the city, street art, that weird cloud shape.
My Go‑to Adventures
I’ve lived a life where “changing the routine” was a sort of lifestyle. Whether it was wandering a new supermarket that smelled of spices I’d never tried or simply taking a different route home, each tweak served as a little reminder that life can be as vibrant as a neon sign.
Give it a shot—one day, one new thing at a time—and let’s kick the stuck‐inside vibe out of the door.
‘Depression is back on the menu’: Hu Bing Cheng, 23, student
When the Pandemic Messes With Your MIND
One Day Without the “Should I Be Here?”
It was pretty sweet at first—no more forced handshakes, no awkward “How’s it going?” that you can’t answer honestly. We finally got the freedom to stay inside in peace.
The Endless “Thank God It’s Here” Cycle
But as soon as the first “it’ll be over soon” came along, we were hit with a string of new rules – “now it’s here!” That constant yo‑yo left me feeling… numb and exhausted.
When Joy Gets Lost in the Crowd
Is nine a family? Five? Or, oh heck, we’re back to just two people again? The future looks like a blur, and depression sneaks back in because we’ve got no real plan to look forward to.
Escaping Through the Screen (and We’re Being Honest)
- YouTube binges that let me stare at cats doing nothing.
- Arcade pixel‑haunted nights that keep my thumbs busy.
- All those “mindless” distractions that act like a cushion, dulling reality just enough.
Those distractions help for a while, but once you realise you’re just killing time, you’ll be on to the next escape.
Why Therapy Might Be Your New Best Buddy
With social circles mottled by Covid’s fallout, a professional ear can be a game‑changer. Therapy gives you a real person to chat with, a safe space to talk about feeling stuck, and a roadmap to get your mental health back on track.
‘I struggle to get up to work and talk to anyone’: Cindy Chian, 33, auditor
Feeling Stuck in the Gray‑Zone of Lockdown Life
What’s been going on? The pandemic hit, lockdowns rolled on, and suddenly I was slipping into a low‑energy zone. I’d find myself loathing the idea of chatting with anyone, feeling like I’d just been wasting my time – yet, oddly enough, I couldn’t muster the drive to do something big.
My Daily Struggle
Each morning, getting out of bed felt like an Olympic event. When I finally made it somewhere (or my living room), I’d close the door on everyone and keep my worries to myself, which only made that quiet a little louder.
What Helps (and What Doesn’t)
- Taking a Run – It’s a quick “reset” for my mind, but the great part? Once I finish, I’m back at the same old loop.
- Gaming – A brief escape that lets me dive into another world, but the clock ends and the itch to get back to reality surfaces again.
- Short‑Term “Coping” Plans – These are my go-to hacks. They’re useful, but they’re not the long‑term game plan I need.
At the end of it all, the state of mind cycles – the way back to “wasting life” keeps pulling me in, and it feels like a mirror endlessly reflecting my own doubts.
Things I’m Trying to Shift
- Set small daily goals that feel like victories: a fresh cup of coffee, a quick stretch, or even a new playlist.
- Invite conversations, even if it’s just a silly “hey” to a friend or a text reply to someone I haven’t spoken to in a while.
- Re‑balance my routine: skewer the “run” or “game” with something that feels like doing something useful, like learning a new skill or working on a hobby.
Honestly, putting these thoughts into words feels like a lightbulb moment. I’m not saying there’s a cure, but sharing what I’m doing helps me keep track and, maybe, keep the future from feeling even more like a grayish habit loop.
‘Understand that you’re not alone’: Lynette Phua, 33, AsiaOne journalist
When Life Pulls Your Strings: My DIY Fix‑It Guide
Picture me as a rubber band stretched to the brink—tension at every nerve, the faint buzz of an impending snap. In that gray zone, I found the quickest way out wasn’t whispering into a therapist’s ears but chatting with friends, scrolling through online forums and realizing the world did have a few more stretchy‑neck folks.
Three Solid Coping Tools I Grabbed:
- Pokémon Go – Yes, I’m counting Pidgeoes at dawn. The digital scavenger hunt turned into a real‑world walk, giving me a “catch ‘em all” boost that made the blues feel less like a cold front and more like a mild drizzle.
- Ritual Fit App Workouts – Think of it as a rhythm‑guided flex session that keeps you moving without the gym‑scented anxiety. I’d set the timer, crank up the playlist, and let the app be my gentle instructor.
- Long Walks – Simple, but effective. River past the park, quiet sidewalk with your earbuds—this plain stroll helped my thoughts recalibrate, one mile at a time.
Why this combo works
Each tool does more than fill time—it gives me a sense of control. Pokémon Go turns every walk into a treasure hunt; Ritual Fit turns a groggy morning into a superhero stance; the long walks provide clean air that clears the padded mental fog.
Realize you’re not alone, pick a simple routine, and give yourself the chance to stretch back to calmness. Happy raiding—and may your inner rubber band stay just a tad bit elastic!₊
Your Mini Mental‑Health Escape Kit
Ever feel like the world is a nonstop treadmill and you’re stuck in the same loop? It’s time to hit the pause button and let your brain breathe a little.
Quick‑Fix Ideas to Slip Away (for a few minutes)
- Take a brisk walk – walk past a tree, feel the wind on your face, and let the rhythm of your steps carry you away.
- Get lost in a book – pick a feel‑good novel, a comic, or a self‑help chapter that makes you smile.
- Indulge in a sweet cuppa – whether it’s tea, coffee, or hot cocoa, let the aroma and warmth ground you.
- Share a meme – a light‑hearted meme can be the perfect antidote to harsh thoughts.
- Listen to a goofy podcast – find one that’s just plain fun and let the laughter wash over you.
Why You’re Not Alone
If you’re wrestling with mental health struggles, remember that you’re not the only one on this rideshare of feelings. Millions of people walk this path, and sharing a laugh or a small escape can make all the difference. Reach out, speak up, or simply mime a smile to yourself – you’ve got this.
‘I end up working way beyond office hours without realising it’: Lau Chak Ching, 26, lawyer
Working From Home: My New Normal
Ever feel like the line between “office” and “home” has melted into a single stream of endless work? That’s me. I do get a tiny bonus: sleeping a few minutes later because I’m not commuting anymore. But at the same time, I’m pulling overtime without even noticing.
Just Starting Out
Being fresh on the job means I still have a lot to learn. Picking up tricks on the fly is trickier when we’re all remote. Luckily, the people around me—colleagues and seniors—are patient and super helpful. They make the learning curve a bit less brutal.
Shared Stress, Shared Relief
When the workload gets heavy, I chat with my girlfriend. She’s juggling her own mountain of stress, so we’re both in the same boat. It’s comforting to know that I’m not the only one carrying a load.
Quick Reset Tricks
- Stare at the wall: Sometimes I just pause, stare vacantly at a white wall, and let my thoughts settle.
- Grab a bite: I try to fit in a quick dinner with my girlfriend or friends, even if the schedule is tight.
- Apple attack: I’ve made a habit of eating plenty of apples. Stickiness and everything—keeps me going.
Heads‑Up for You
If you’re wrestling with mental health while juggling work, here’s a little cheat sheet:
- Find tiny pockets of “me” time: Even a 5‑minute break counts.
- Sleep more: A good night’s rest can do wonders.
- Fuel up properly: Enjoy tasty food; it’s easier than it sounds.
Remember: the balance is a moving target, but you’ve got this. Keep laughing, keep learning, and keep treating yourself the way you treat your favourite snack—with a little respect and a lot of love.
SINGAPORE HELPLINES
Need a Friendly Sounding Heart? Here’s the Singapore Hotline Playbook
The Numbers That Will Pick Up For You
- Samaritans of Singapore – 1800‑221‑4444
- Singapore Association for Mental Health (SAMH) – 1800‑283‑7019
- Care Corner Counselling Centre (Mandarin) – 1800‑353‑5800
- Institute of Mental Health Helpline – 6389‑2222
- Silver Ribbon (English & Mandarin) – 6386‑1928
- Shan You Counselling Centre (Mandarin) – 6741‑0078
- Tinkle Friend (Kid‑Friendly Hotline) – 1800‑2744‑788
Digital Lifeline – Fei Yue’s Online Counselling Service
- Web: www.eC2.sg (yes, it’s as easy as scrolling and tapping)
- Available in both English and Mandarin for comfort
The Golden Email Hook
- Send a quick note or ask for a referral at: [email protected]
Why This Matters—A Touch of Heart…
Even on a rainy weekday or after an exhausting workday, you can still feel supported. When you’re in a swirl of anxiety or just feeling out of sorts, dialing these numbers will let you speak to real people who actually care. Think of it as a “mental health fast‑food” – healthy, quick, and delivered straight to you.
And a Little Fun‑Game:
Every time you pick up your phone to call a hotline, try keeping a “feel‑good” mantra ready, like “I’m strong, I’m brave, I’ve got this.” It’s silly? No, it’s powerful.
Key Takeaways
- All hotlines are free, 24/7 (except in the middle of your sleep).
- They’ll help you with a range of issues – from anxiety and depression to post‑COVID iQ‑D (yes, we made that pun).
- Don’t be shy; this is the folks who’ve survived talking to strangers before you are even reaching out.
Remember
Life is unpredictable – your phone number is your safety rope. Keep these numbers handy and reach out if you ever feel the need. You’re never alone.
