Coronavirus and mental health: How can preppers help each other during a lockdown?

Preppers value self-sufficiency, but they also know the value of teamwork. As COVID-19 continues to spread throughout America, preppers across the country are practicing social distancing to help flatten the curve. But if you’re worried about your fellow preppers, there are many ways to reach out to them and show your support while staying home.

Use social media to stay in touch

Isolation can be very difficult for some people, like the elderly or those who live alone.

While practicing social distancing, you can say “hello” to your fellow preppers through a messaging app. Simply hearing from like-minded friends can improve your mood.

Practice communications

Certain prepping groups use communication procedures and codes for security. During a lockdown, you can practice such skills. If you have a shortwave radio or ham radio, now is the time to learn how to use your gear.

If you prefer more modern means of communication, you can catch up with fellow preppers by listening to podcasts or other online events.

Learn new skills through video-sharing sites

Make the most of the time you spend at home by refreshing your prepping skills and learning new ones by watching tutorials on video sharing sites, such as Brighteon.

Alternatively, you can brush up on your skills by reviewing self-help books or practicing basic prepping skills in your backyard.

Share recipes and learn new ones

With lockdown and social distancing orders, people are spending more time indoors. This means having to cook more meals at home, which can be hard if you’re not adept at cooking to start with.

Conversely, if you’re the family’s designated cook, you can help fellow preppers by sharing recipes for some of your favorite meals.

Learning new recipes means new ways to cook the foods in your survival stockpile, and an easy way to add variety to your lockdown menu.

Join or start a mental health support network

These are stressful times. Check in on your fellow preppers by setting up a system to help them if they need a friend to talk to.

While you can call hotlines, talking to a fellow prepper can help relieve the pressure of telling a stranger about your worries.

Barter and trade while social distancing

If SHTF, you may need to barter or trade to acquire supplies. But how can you do that while social distancing?

Set up a drop-off and pick-up point, and make sure you’re meeting up with someone you trust. Sanitize the items you wish to trade and maintain the recommended distance of at least six feet apart.

Join an online prepper group

There are many prepper groups on social media, but it may take some time to find one that’s right for you.

Check some groups online and browse their websites. If their posts pique your interest, send a request to join so you can start interacting with fellow preppers, all from the comfort of your home.

Safeguarding your mental health during a lockdown

Before you can help your fellow preppers, you must first safeguard your own mental health. Here are some tips to help you manage your stress so you can focus on work or preps.

Create (and maintain) a routine

Just because you’re stuck at home doesn’t mean you can’t be productive. Wake up at the same time each day, work from home if you can and finish your chores.

Following a routine also helps you get more things done and helps you maintain a sense of normalcy.

Avoid burnout

Trying too hard to be productive can also be harmful. If you focus too much on work, you may experience burnout. Take small breaks frequently to refresh your mind.

Prioritize your physical health

Your mental resilience is tied to your physical health. Eat nutritious meals, take supplements, get enough sleep and exercise regularly so you can stay healthy.

Stay connected

Keep in touch with friends who live far away. Send a text or call a friend and ask how they’re doing.

If you have to spend time away from your family during a lockdown, use technology to your advantage. Try arranging a video lunch date to chase the blues away.

Limit media consumption

It’s important to monitor the news during a pandemic, but with 24/7 access to information via television, radio and social media, you may be overwhelmed with feelings of constant dread. Stay informed using reliable sources, but avoid consuming too much content.

Stay busy

Keeping yourself busy during a lockdown can keep boredom or cabin fever at bay. Those who are able to work from home can start some prepping projects or revisit an old hobby after finishing their work.

Maintain your overall health, stay in touch with family and friends and reach out to your fellow preppers so you can get through these trying times together.

Sources include:

BackdoorSurvival.com

CNBC.com