COVID-19 and Mental Health: 5 Tips for Coping Right Now
What You Can Do
Headlines. Facebook posts. 24-hour news. OH MY!
I think we’ve found our new lions, tigers, and bears.
As research is being done on how the coronavirus itself affects our body, there is some research being done on how this pandemic and isolation is affecting our physical and mental health. A recent study performed in China reported 42.6% of citizens tested positive for anxiety related to the coronavirus and 16% may be dealing with moderate to severe depression. In the US, the LA Times wrote about a study finding that 75% of college students are dealing with higher levels of anxiety, depression and stress. When it comes to physical health, one physician stated, “the mortality effect of social isolation is like smoking 15 cigarettes per day” and another physician stated older people may see an exacerbation of preexisting medical conditions.
That all sounds scary!
What can you do right now?
Here Are 5 Things You Can Do:
1. Stick To Your Routine
With or without work to do at home, it is important to get ready for the day. My brother-in-law now wakes up every morning, gets ready for work and even puts on his (no longer needed) work ID lanyard.
2. Limit Information
Scrolling through social media posts, constantly watching the news, and refreshing online new sources is exhausting and can take a toll on your mental well-being. Try limiting your time spent seeking information and stick to reliable sources of information like the CDC and WHO.
3. Focus on What You Can Do
Keep washing your hands, sanitizing surfaces, and be weigh the risks of social isolation versus possible infection when you plan outings.
4. Take Care of Yourself
Go for a walk, get plenty of sleep, meditate, exercise, search for places you want to travel to next year, call your family or friends or your therapist, do a nourishing facemask! Whatever activity recharges your batteries – go for it
5. Help Others
Together, as humanity, we will overcome this disruption with compassion and connection. If you have extra resources or time, use them to uplift your community. Run errands for the elderly or immunocompromised in your neighborhood. Sew reusable masks for your local hospital. Package meals or donate food. Get creative!
Looking for a way to connect with others and take care of yourself? Haleigh, our Liscensed Mental Health Therapist is avaialible in person or virtually. Stop feeling so alone, she can help.