Why we need better coping skills than binge-watching during the pandemic

Binging TV shows is an easy way to pass the time.

But as the COVID-19 pandemic stretches on, social worker Martine Lopez cautions that these kinds of coping mechanisms might not be good in the long run.

"Distraction techniques are helpful, but they're only temporary. There's only so much Netflix you can watch," says Martine on What're You At? With Tom Power.

Instead, she encourages building a diverse range of coping skills that will help build resilience to stress in the long term. "We don't know how long this pandemic is going to be," says Martine.

In an interview with Tom Power and a panel of frontline workers, she explains different strategies people can add to their toolbox to help cope with the lockdown.

Exercise, eating healthy and practicing mindfulness are some healthy coping strategies that Martine recommends.

"There's so many different ways of practicing mindfulness," explains Martine. In the clip above, she mentions how mindful eating, listening to music and practicing meditation helps to manage her family's anxiety.

Above all the uncertainty caused by the pandemic, Martine says it's important to maintain your daily routine. "Focussing on what we can control versus what we can't — I think that is very helpful for people."

If you are struggling with mental health and need to talk to someone, call the Crisis Services Canada crisis hotlines at 1-833-456-4566 or text 45645.

Kids Help Phone is available to Canadian youth 24/7 at 1-800-668-6868.

For more national resources on information about mental illness, call Canadian Mental Health Association at 416-646-5557 or visit their website.