The COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic is all over the news and is impacting our lives in many ways. Here in California (as well as many other states and countries), people are “sheltering in place” and “safer at home.” Schools are closed, many businesses are closed, and many of the people who do still have jobs are now working from home.
It should come as no surprise that this has triggered significant anxiety and fear, especially for those with preexisting mental health challenges. Many individuals who were already struggling with anxiety, depression, or chronic stress are now experiencing an intensification of their symptoms. And some people are experiencing heightened anxiety for the first time.
Common mental health symptoms associated with the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic:
- Changes in sleep patterns (sleeping too much or too little)
- Changes in appetite (reduced appetite or increased “stress eating”)
- Difficulty concentrating
- Increased mood swings (including irritability, anger, etc.)
- Increased misuse of mood-altering substances (alcohol, marijuana, and other drugs)
Here are 20 tips for coping with the anxiety and stress triggered by the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic:
(1) Limit the amount of time you spend watching the news or reading about this topic, and only seek information about what’s happening from reliable sources.
(2) Get enough sleep
(3) Stay physically active and exercise regularly
(4) Focus on nutrition
(5) Stay well hydrated
(6) Practice deep breathing
(7) Try meditation
(8) Listen to relaxing music
(9) Read something unrelated to current events
(10) Limit your caffeine intake
(11) Create something
(12) Avoid turning to alcohol, marijuana, or other drugs as a means of emotional coping
(13) Read or watch things that make you laugh
(14) Focus on planning for the future after this crisis has passed.
(15) Speak regularly with loved ones and friends (phone calls, texts, live video, emails and social media are all great options).
(16) Seek out positive stories of others helping those in need.
(17) Find ways to help others stay safe and healthy during this time.
(18) Spend time in sunlight when and where possible.
(19) Journal about your thoughts and feelings.
(20) Share your feelings openly with the people you trust.
If you’d like accountability in implementing these strategies or are in need of additional support, please know that we’re here to help remotely (through live video or telephone). Our initial consultations are always free.
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