Staying positive in the midst of chaos is not an easy task. Headlines about increase in COVID-19 related deaths flash across the screen on a daily basis. Disturbing visuals and videos have become the norm rather than the exception. Salary cuts, job losses, emotional and financial stress is pushing a lot of people to the brink. What can you do about it? That’s the question that we posed to a mental health expert, and here’s what she had to say.

Having a positive outlook is a work-in-progress

Some people feel that a positive outlook is like fairy dust, you sprinkle it all around you, and you will wake up feeling positive.  That’s clearly not how it works according to clinical psychologist Seema Hingorani.  Staying positive in the midst of chaos is hard. Seema says, “Having a positive outlook is a work-in-progress. You have to continuously work at it. You cannot get up one morning, and decide you want to be in a positive frame of mind. It does not work that way.”

Staying calm in the midst of chaos

Seema says that the key to staying positive in the midst of chaos is to be mindful of triggers that cause stress and anxiety. She cautions people to be aware of such triggers, which include constant negative news about rising COVID-19 deaths, fake messages and disturbing images and videos on social media, fights at home, negative and anxious people, who add to your anxiety. Seema recommends keeping oneself updated about what’s going on around you, but filtering that information with a holistic outlook.

How to cultivate a positive outlook

As mentioned earlier, a positive outlook is a work-in-progress according to Seema, and here’s how you can work towards it.

Filter the information available For example, if you are looking at COVID-19 related deaths, and increase in cases, also look at recovery figures, and areas that have controlled the spread of the virus.

Listen to calming sounds Many people find listening to sounds of nature, forests, oceans and raindrops calming. You can try to calm your mind by listening to these natural sounds.

Limit your interactions with negative people If you feel a neighbour, co-worker, relative or friend is constantly whining and in a negative frame of mind, and that stresses you, you will have to limit your interactions with them for your mental well-being.

Learn to regulate your emotions Watch videos that are refreshing, calm you down and uplift your spirits and energy.

Meditation Try chanting and meditation, to calm your mind.

Eat healthy, organic food Avoid excessive consumption of sugar and processed foods as they release stress hormones. Instead, consume organic produce that’s great for the mind and body. When your hormones are balanced, it puts you in a good mood, and is also great for your mental health.

Wear vibrant colours If you are feeling low, opt for vibrant colours that can uplift your mood.

Six ways to positive thinking

Aruna Joshi, author of The Happiness Manual – 21 ways to stay happy no matter what, shares six ways to positive thinking that you can work towards.

Adopt an attitude of gratitude

Gratitude leads to positive thinking and happiness. Maintain a gratitude journal, and write down at least five things you are grateful for when you start your day.

Live in the NOW

The focus on the past causes guilt and regrets, and focus on the future causes fears and insecurities. It is only in the present moment that you can find peace and happiness. It is important to train our mind to be present in the NOW. This can be achieved through meditation and by focusing on the breath.

Do not compare

We often tend to compare ourselves with our peers or friends or neighbours. Comparison is lethal for happiness. It is important to break that habit or pattern. This can be done through self-introspection and developing a higher understanding that each one of us is unique, and has our individual purpose in life.

Practice an act of kindness

Kindness acts as a natural medicine for an unhappy mind. Practice an act of kindness daily, and see how your life changes magically.

Be yourself

In today’s world of social media each one of us is living two lives. One, is what we truly are, and the other is what we want people to perceive we are. However, living a dual life is a major source of stress and negativity. Learn to accept and love yourself unconditionally, to be content and happy.

Let it go

Let go of negative emotions like resentment, anger, jealousy, hatred, fears and insecurities. Replace them with gratitude, forgiveness and faith.