As we approach the longer-term reality of COVID-19, keep an eye on how you’re doing:
- Are you able to sustain your focus on daily activities?
- Are you feeling anxious or even a little out of control?
- Do you have any strong feelings that interfere with your daily activities?
- Are you experiencing any emotions that have become difficult to manage?
- Feelings of hopelessness or helplessness
Any of these changes are becoming persistent or interfering with how you are doing daily? It’s time to really prioritize taking care of yourself. Reach out for the help that will help you through this long haul.
Physical and mental self-care are even more important now.
Physically:
- Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet, avoid junk food and drink plenty of water
- Maintain a good sleep schedule, and try not to watch TV before bed
- Keep an exercise routine – yoga classes can be found on You-tube; biking, jogging and walking
- Avoid coping behaviors that can become problematic (e.g. alcohol; gambling)
- Always follow social distancing guidelines
Psychologically, it’s crucial to:
- Maintain a routine while working at home.
- Use technology wisely to maintain social connections with your loved ones. Consider a regular check-in schedule to give you something to look forward to.
- Listen to music or read a book to fill your time.
- Consume news sources carefully. Limit your exposure or take a break from the news and social media if you find that it makes you anxious.
- Stay connect with family and friends and nurture emotional intimacy virtually– hangouts, virtual chats, watch movies together while social distancing.
- Honor collectivism and interdependence – we are all in this together
If you are a spiritual person:
- Trust in your personal beliefs and faith.
- Practice meditation and mindfulness.
- Look for ways to help your community, such as delivering meals to frontline workers; offering telehealth services to nurses and afflicted families; donating supplies or money to local organizations.
- Acknowledging and appreciating what others are doing to help you and your community.
It’s time to take a deep breath and reach inside to find the strength and resilience you need to stay moving forward. Acceptance of being in this for a longer period, is healthy. Not quarantining your personal growth in the process is powerful.
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