Opinion: Why going outside matters now more than ever
Ever since we have been affected by COVID-19, the general guidelines for protecting yourself have stayed relatively the same. A quick glance at the CDC’s website will remind you to wash your hands, avoid close contact, wear a mask in public, and monitor your health along with other helpful information. It takes a bit more extensive exploration through the website to find any sort of advice related to mental health.
This is a problem.
I understand that mental health is probably not the primary concern for such organizations. However, I would argue that because of the drastic increase of individuals struggling to maintain a healthy state of mental well-being, there should always be advice readily available to guide and comfort those who desperately need help.
Unfortunately, there are many people who have taken the phrase “stay inside, stay safe” a little too extreme. I personally have friends that rarely leave their bedrooms throughout the day. So many people are wrapped in fear and uncertainty that they will simply isolate themselves despite having no symptoms.
Of course, “stay inside, stay safe” is used with good intentions. No one is trying to lock us inside for months on end for no reason, and it is of utmost importance that we follow the guidelines that are given to us to protect ourselves and others, especially with the recent spike in cases throughout Utah. However, I also firmly believe that it is possible to follow these guidelines without allowing fear and panic to get the better of us.
Not surprisingly, depression and anxiety rates have tripled since March. The director of the CDC himself, Robert Redfield, pointed out in a webinar that the number of high school deaths from suicide has far surpassed the deaths from COVID.
If I could choose one thing that health organizations would address regarding the mental health crisis, it would be to emphasize the need for sunlight exposure.
Studies have shown that just going for a walk outside for a few minutes will improve your mood and improve sleep, along with countless other benefits. That being said, there are several ways one can enjoy outdoor activities while staying safe. If an effort is made to wear a mask and social distance, feel no shame in going for a walk, run, bike ride, or any low-risk activity you enjoy.
There are many social activities that have been deemed low-risk by health officials. Here are a list of such activities taken directly from the Mayo Clinic:
- Picnics. Pack food from home or pick up takeout from your favorite restaurant or food truck and take it to enjoy at your favorite public park.
- Farmers markets. Wear a mask and maintain a social distance of at least 6 feet (2 meters) from others.
- Gathering with friends. Allow for social distancing between people from different households and skip the hugs and handshakes. Plan activities that don’t require close contact, such as sidewalk chalk for kids and games like Frisbee. And offer hand sanitizer.
Remember that just getting together for a chat at a safe distance can offer a valuable opportunity to be with people you care about — and boost your mood at the same time. - Drive-in movies. The COVID-19 pandemic has launched a drive-in movie theater comeback in the U.S. It’s something many people can enjoy together with plenty of physical distance.
To be clear, am not in any way suggesting that sun exposure prevents or cures COVID-19.
I’m merely suggesting that we pay attention to our mental health. It’s painfully ironic that staying inside for extended periods of time can cause more harm than going outside, but that’s the truth. We’re so blessed to live near magnificent mountains and beautiful valleys. While we still are social distancing, let’s not let that stop us from taking advantage of what nature has given us.
Cache Valley is offering many opportunities to get out of the house and enjoy some sunlight! The Drive-Thru Farmer’s Market is on Saturday, the North Logan Pumpkin Walk is on October 15th, and countless other events and activities to get informed about can be found at Cache Valley Daily. Additionally, don’t forget about the awesome student events being held on campus!
Photo by Jerome on Unsplash.
Sometimes, despite our efforts to stay mentally healthy, things just become too much to bear. In these instances, we shouldn’t be afraid to reach out to others. USU has done an excellent job of providing mental health resources and tips for those seeking help regarding virus anxiety that are readily available to students.
If you find yourself constantly worrying about things out of your control, I strongly recommend you explore the links listed below. We’re never alone, and there are plenty of resources we can use.
USU Counseling & Psychological Services
USU Student Wellness Portal (for all USU campuses)
National Crisis Hotline (available for free 24/7): 1-800-273-8255
Crisis Text Line (free crisis support): Text HOME to 741741
Brayden Rigby is a sophomore studying Journalism. He enjoys writing of any kind, and spends most of his free time running and swimming.
brayden.rigby@usu.edu