COVID-19 took the nation by storm. For many Americans who suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or depression, it completely halted their coping strategies and healing processes. Everything went from normal to lockdown in a matter of days. For many people, their coping mechanisms included support groups, church, being outside, playing sports, or visiting friends. This all came to a screeching halt.
With no end to the coronavirus in sight, no one really knows when life will go back to normal — if it ever does. These coping strategies may help you get through the remaining months of the “safer at home” orders that are being implemented by many states.
Online Zoom Hangouts
Just because social distancing is encouraged doesn’t mean that you need to distance yourself from your support groups, loved ones, and friends. When you can’t see them in person, Zoom hangouts are the next best thing! Reach out to your support groups, your family, and people you have developed friendships with (or would like to). Virtual hangouts could be a great way to stay connected to others who may also be trying to maintain the same coping strategies that you are.
Organize one night a week when your friends all get onto a video chat platform and talk about your week or play a game together. Several streaming websites have started “watch with a friend” programs that allow people to watch the same show at the exact same time. You can even chat with each other during the program.
Pick Up a New Hobby or Skill
Language learning platforms and educational websites are thriving right now. This is a perfect time to learn a new language for your big trip next year or learn how to sculpt, paint, or code computers. In this age of technology, you have unlimited information at your fingertips. Sometimes it all gets to be too much, and you just need to distract yourself. Try listening to a new podcast series, tackling home renovations, or cooking the latest dish. The sky’s the limit!
Start a New Physical Activity Regime
Now is a great time to get into a workout routine, as we are all at home. Start with one 30-minute walk or jog and increase the amount of activity every day to create a habit. Exercise is proven to boost your mood and happiness. Try to exercise outside when you can to get extra Vitamin D as well.
Check-in on People You Care About
This is a time when many people are nervous, and everything is unprecedented. Remember that everyone else is also trying to cope with these world changes. It could be beneficial for you to send your friend a text asking how they are holding up or reminding someone you love that you’re thinking about them.
Don’t Try to Break Every Bad Habit at Once
Many people are wanting to utilize this time to kick their bad habits. Take it slow while you are combating old habits and reinforcing new ones. Don’t go cold turkey and stop everything right away — adequately tackle one addiction before moving onto another one. Make sure that you are replacing a bad habit with a good one. For example, if you decided to quit smoking, try replacing it with going for a walk.
Refrain From Negative Talk
Try to not hold yourself back with negative self-talk. Instead of saying “I’m stuck inside,” try replacing that thought with “I am grateful to have time to focus on myself and my home.” Working from home is an excellent opportunity to switch your focus from external issues to internal issues.
Having a mindset of being stuck or restrained during this time is not productive, and it will only stress you out more. Take a step back when you are feeling overwhelmed to focus on yourself and your opportunity to grow.
Avoid Obsessing Over Coronavirus News
While it is important to make sure you’re in the loop on the latest pandemic coverage, you should also be mindful that you don’t need to hear the same coverage over and over from news stations. Every morning, go on the internet or turn on the television for one hour and allow yourself to get the news you need — and then shut it off. Instead of watching constant news updates, focus on staying healthy and calm during a global state of unrest.
The qualified team of mental health professionals at Achieve Concierge understands how stressful these unprecedented times are. Whatever your needs may be, we are committed to providing the highest level of mental wellness care with personalized service that is second to none. To learn more, call us today at (619) 393-5871.