With the Coronavirus (COVID-19) now a global pandemic, anxiety and stress levels are becoming much higher than normal for our general population. However, those who have already been diagnosed with a known mental health condition, you may find that today’s current events surrounding COVID-19 pandemic may have started to exacerbate the symptoms of your condition. The reason for this increased sense of anxiety and stress is mainly due to so much uncertainty that is being publicized through the news, statistics, and constant updates of emergency guidelines, which is very emotionally draining for everyone. So, how do we combat this daily bombardment of stressors and stay calm during this storm?

1. Practice Self-Care: With so much beyond our control right now, focus on what you can control. This entails getting more sleep, meditate (https://www.headspace.com/covid-19 free meditation videos), exercise, fueling your body with whole foods and making better decisions regarding your eating habits that will boost your immune system, “take me away” Calgon bath- whatever you do, now is the time to make you and your wellness a priority.

 

2. Limit use of Social Media: Set limits on how often you are using social media, especially if you are at home where it is tempting to check in more often. Don’t let a constant stream of tweets, status updates, and conflicting opinions overwhelm you.

 

3. Read only reliable news sources: Stay informed by reading only reliable resources, such as government websites, World Health Organization (WHO), and the Center for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC). Other news sources may be less accurate, and may cause unnecessary feelings of panic and concern.

 

4. Talk it out: Acknowledge any stress and anxiety that you are feeling…don’t feel ashamed. Take this opportunity to connect with other family and friends to ask how they are coping, and don’t forget to ask how your children are feeling and limit their use of media coverage to help decrease their feelings of being overwhelmed.

 

5. Reach out to co-workers: Now is the time for co-workers to come together. Focus on establishing positive morale at work, and if you are working remotely set times in your schedule to meet with your colleagues through conference calls or video chat.

 

6. Ask for help: Everyone reacts to stressful situations differently, and it is natural to feel overwhelmed during present times. Remember: your employee assistance program (EAP) is a go to resource for help and support.

 

We are all in this together, and we must stay connected to those around us, focus on what you can control, and don’t allow yourself to burnout.

 

If you or an immediate family member needs more help in being able to more effectively cope during these uncertain times, contact the McLeod EAP for a confidential appointment with one of our licensed professionals, by calling (843) 317-4949 in Florence or (843) 655-9438 and (843) 663-0770 at the coast.

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