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 Healthy Coping Strategies During COVID-19

 

• Stay connected. “Social Distancing” only refers to physical space, it does not mean “social isolation.” Staying connected to others is essential to our well-being so please practice reaching out to those that you have a healthy relationship with. You have a right to protect yourself and to also create healthy boundaries during these connections. This may include limiting the amount of time that you spend in contact with someone or limiting the amount of time that you discuss this virus and the news, as well as consider what time of day that you contact others, attempt to make space for both of you to vent while also trying to discuss other things in life as well, etc.

• Create a daily routine and schedule. We thrive with structure and it is important to remain mindful of how you are spending your days and nights. Boredom allows for our minds to wander and in stressful times, that often leads to more anxiety. It is important to keep to the basics; eating balanced meals, keeping a standard sleep and wake schedule, performing daily hygiene (bathing and wearing clean clothes), organizing yourself, and getting fresh air/daylight.  

• Allow for some balance. You may want to limit how much news coverage you are absorbing and be mindful of your sources. Try to limit your information to only reliable sources and a limited number of them; such as the CDC and/or WHO. Also limit how much social media you are using, we know that too much use often leads to negative mood. Also, be mindful to find balance in what you are doing; try not to overindulge in any one food or drink, activity, thought or mood.

• Be thoughtful of your words and behaviors. Those around us are greatly affected by how we speak and behave. For example, there may be children present that easily absorb our moods and they can become overly and unnecessarily worried. The way that you speak to others will influence how you feel. Watch out for catastrophizing and displacement of stress and anxiety. Working from home or being cooped up at home can be stressful, be mindful of how you treat those around you.

• Continue with self-care and grounding strategies. Take this time to continuously ground yourself with breath, mindfulness, and physical movement. Try something new or attend to something that you have been putting off. Return to old hobbies or watch your favorite movies. Read a book. Cook a meal. Share a laugh. Spend time with your pets. Do an activity and play with your kids.