A few days ago, Michelle Obama mentioned on her new podcast that she’d been experiencing “low-grade depression.” This she put down to the ongoing coronavirus crisis, protests surrounding the Black Lives Matters movement and the importance of the upcoming presidential election.
Now, in a follow-up Instagram post, the former first lady has reassured fans that she’s coping well despite these emotional “highs and lows.” Her intention by sharing? To shake the stigma of mental health and keep it real about the toll current world events are taking on all of us.
@michelleobama
“I just wanted to check in with you all because a lot of you have been checking in on me after hearing this week’s podcast,” she captioned a black-and-white snap of herself. “First things first—I’m doing just fine. There’s no reason to worry about me… I’m thinking about the folks out there risking themselves for the rest of us—the doctors and nurses and essential workers of all kinds. I’m thinking about the teachers and students and parents who are just trying to figure out school for the fall. I’m thinking about the people out there protesting and organising for a little more justice in our country.”
One survey found that one in three adults are currently reporting symptoms of depression or anxiety – more than three times the rate from a similar survey conducted in the first half of 2019. And because one of the most effective ways to avoid coronavirus is through social distancing, many have gone long stretches of time without seeing friends or family. Which, btw, can definitely be a contributing factor if you’re feeling less than 100 per cent.
“The idea that what this country is going through shouldn’t have any effect on us—that we all should just feel OK all the time—that just doesn’t feel real to me. So I hope you all are allowing yourselves to feel whatever it is you’re feeling. I hope you’re listening to yourselves and taking a moment to reflect on everything that’s coming at us, and what you might be able to do about it,” she continued. “And to all of you who’ve reached out—thank you. I hope you’re also reaching out to all those you’re closest with, not just with a text, but maybe with a call or a videochat. Don’t be afraid to offer them a shoulder to lean on, or to ask for one yourself. Love you all.”
Hear hear, Michelle.
Main image: Getty
What have you been doing to look after your mental health lately?
She’s great! Knowing I can hope for a little holiday away often keeps me going and knowing my mum who I love so much is actually doing that for a month right now makes me also happy.
Trying to exercise everyday and keep in touch with family and friends.
It’s definitely hard during these times to maintain positivity and hope but I try to keep in touch with friends and distract myself by watching something funny to help me feel better.
Nothing different. My life is always same in terms of knowing what is going on (in general). So health is optimal as usual.
A Very Important Message guess that COVID-19 does make you feel that you are alone in the World at times with the Stress of dealing with living under Restrictions.
A wise and timely message.
I love her advice
My son is in New York and we Facetime regularly to keep connected and send love – thank goodness for technology Xxxxx
My exercise at least 6 days a week keeps me sane
Good on her, she’s such a positive role-model!
I’ve been doing it tough, so I’ve been trying to keep myself busy & physically active. I’ve been accomplishing small tasks & getting a lot done: finishing sewing projects, mending, decluttering &c. It keeps my mind pre-occupied. I’ve been reading voraciously & I try to go for walks.
Its really like 2020 was sent to try us. So many people are having to deal with one negative event after another this year and covid just adds to it. For me I am basically a very positive person and my mother taught me to always find the positive in any situation which is what I have done with covid. Quiet time alone means I have been able to dive into my books which have always been an escape for me. Ive spent time cleaning and rearranging furniture which always makes me feel good….I hate cleaning but once its done I have a sense of pride.
I love Michelle. She’s so relatable and down to earth despite being this awe-inspiring woman.
Staying off social media, turning off the news. Keeping a positive mind. Going to the gym. Keeping my mental health in check these ways
Need to be better!
She is such a positive role model, the things that have been said about her (and some comments are truly evil) would bring most people down. We all have to look out for one another – BH is a good place to find support if you need it.
Michelle Obama is so refreshingly normal with sound advice. I admire her immensely.
I’m keeping myself occupied and sane-ish with cooking, reading, listening to webinars, meditation and daily walks with my dogs. Stage 4 lockdown is very stressful.
Thank goodness we have the internet and we can keep in close contact with our loved ones via video chat etc. It’s not the same as being with them, but this better than nothing.
Diet, exercise, journal and connect with my amazing people!!!
hear hear
Just talking to someone can help
Great article.
Social isolation definitely does not help your mental health. Good on Michelle Obama for highlighting this issue.
Sometimes little things can help.
She’s a queen
Brilliant. Thanks Michelle for helping fight stigma.
Talking things over always puts them into perspective.
Be positive, and always look to see the good in something
Talk to your friends make you feel better.
Talking to someone is always a good start
She’s an amazing woman, and genuinely cares for others.
Walking has been my escape. I feel as though the year has forced me to take care of both my physical and mental health. I need time alone to recharge. It’s challenging when we can’t just get in our car and drive for a change of scenery. I’m embracing my local area more and trying to discover places I once took for granted. I journal on and off. I started a gratitude journal which helps put things in perspective. Can find positive outcomes in a day even when it feels dark and challenging.
I’ve been meditating more in recent months. I’ve also been watching less television because there’s so much negativity on it.
Checking in with others is usually helpful
I love to do volunteer work at op shops.
Be kind to each other.