Unprecedented. Covid-19. Pandemic. Lockdown. PPE. Coronavirus. (A)Symptomatic. Contact Tracing.
And the list goes on………
All terms we have heard and used over the last 7 months. We are learning to live with this pandemic, as if we had a choice! However, despite the adjustments we have had to make, we can all agree that we have been experiencing some level of anxiety, fear of the unknown. Know that it is to be expected – some are working from home, others working remotely and having to attend to little ones, supervising school-aged children engaged in virtual learning...additional roles have been adopted. How do we find the calm amid this unique crisis?
Here are some recommendations:
ACCEPT your circumstances – the virus is here, and quite possible will be for some time, and there is nothing you nor I can do… Accept what you cannot control; change what you can – follow CDC guidelines to protect yourself, your loved ones, and others you may encounter.
More: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html
BREATHE! Take deep breaths throughout the day – it will help to relax your body and your mind…Breathe in (smell the roses), breathe out (blow out the candles).
CONNECT with others – reach out and talk with someone, send cards, write letters (yes, letters😊).
DISCOVER a new interest, and a new YOU! this is a perfect time to identify and engage in new interests – international cooking, baking, painting/drawing/coloring, writing/journaling, photography, gardening, reading, playing an instrument, tennis, start/join a prayer group/book club.
EXERCISE - research has repeatedly shown the importance of exercise for our mental and physical health. Find a virtual exercise program online and/or walk/run/jog in your community at a safe distance.
FREE your mind - while it is important to stay informed, do limit your media consumption, emails, and social media. Use the time to pray, practice yoga, meditation, mindfulness…learn to just be still…
GET adequate sleep - proper sleep habits or “sleep hygiene” can help you fall asleep and stay asleep.
HEALTHY EATING - it is even more important now to ensure a healthy eating habit… we have the opportunity to create more home-cooked meals and get everyone involved – make it a family activity - quality time with family is essential!
IDENTIFY and name your feelings - know that it is natural to experience a wide range of emotions – feeling anxious, fearful, disconnected, depressed, immobilized, unmotivated, inadequate, …you are not alone. Now is the time to identify and implement effective coping strategies. Refer to the recommendations listed above (A-H).
IF you feel you are in crisis, reach out to a mental health provider. Remember – your MENTAL HEALTH is an important part of your overall health and wellbeing.
JOT down these numbers to resources that are available 24/7 if you need to talk to someone:
- Disaster Distress Hotline 800-985-5990
- National Lifeline 800-273-TALK (8255)
- Suicide Prevention Lifeline 888-628-9454
- National Domestic Violence Hotline 800-799-SAFE (7233)
KNOW that it is okay to ask for help.
I am here to help – call today for a free consultation (305)600-1410