~By Tammy Fazio
The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic is more than just a virus, it is an attack on the state of your health. Fear and anxiety about a new disease and what could happen can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions in adults and children. Public health actions, such as social distancing, can make people feel isolated and lonely and can increase stress and anxiety.Total health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or viruses.
During these trying times, how do we cope with stress and promote wellbeing? Here are a few ways to deal with the current state of the pandemic.
Meditate
Meditation is a mind and body practice that has a long history of use for increasing calmness and physical relaxation, improving psychological balance, coping with illness, and enhancing overall health and well-being. Mind and body practices focus on the interactions among the brain, mind, body, and behavior.Meditation can also include taking breaks from upsetting content such as social media. Make time to unwind. Try creative relaxation techniques, like music therapy or art.
Take care of your body-Exercise
Exercise regularly. Even one session of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity reduces anxiety, and even short bouts of physical activity are beneficial. The evidence is clear—physical activity can make you feel better, function better, and sleep better. Being physically active also fosters normal growth and development, improves overall health, can reduce the risk of various chronic diseases.
Get plenty of sleep
Be consistent. Go to bed at the same time each night and get up at the same time each morning, including on the weekends. Good sleep habits (sometimes referred to as “sleep hygiene”) can help you get a good night’s sleep. Make sure your bedroom is quiet, dark, relaxing, and at a comfortable temperature. Remove electronic devices, such as TVs, computers, and smart phones, from the bedroom.
And Finally….
Seek Help
If you, or someone you care about, are feeling overwhelmed with emotions like sadness, depression, or anxiety, or feel like you want to harm yourself or others, seek professional help. If distress impacts activities of your daily life for several days or weeks, talk to a clergy member, counselor, or healthcare provider. If you can’t find the help you need there are several helpline’s that are free and confidential. One such organizations is SAMHSA’s National Helpline. SAMHSA’s National Helpline, 1-800-662-HELP (4357), (also known as the Treatment Referral Routing Service) or TTY: 1-800-487-4889 is a confidential, free, 24-hour-a-day, 365-day-a-year, information service, in English and Spanish, for individuals and family members facing mental and/or substance use disorders. This service provides referrals to local treatment facilities, support groups, and community-based organizations that offer creative arts therapies, like Fine Art Miracles. Callers can also order free publications and other information.
Most importantly, take care of yourself and each other.
