Minimize News and Social Media coverage of the pandemic.

Spending not more than an hour watching the coverage of the pandemic minimizes negative effects of too much news or media.

Accept all feelings you’re having.

There are no right or wrong feelings. You may be experiencing grief, anxiety, irritability, hopelessness, and loneliness. All feelings are valid. Give yourself permission to feel whatever you’re feeling. Acknowledge your feelings as valid no matter how outrageous you may think they are. It’s OK to not be OK right now. What’s important is that you express these feelings to others who care about you.

Keep a schedule and stick to it, especially if you have children.

Schedules structure our day and give us a sense of control, especially if we are stressed out. Children respond well to schedules and structure. Families are in better harmony with schedules.

Include physical exercise on a regular basis.

Exercise is an important part of overall physical and mental health. Do an activity you enjoy, be it walking, gardening, watching a work-out video. The internet has a lot to offer in the form of dance, structured classes and yoga.

Include self-care activities that you enjoy, and those you can do with your family.

Think about the hobbies you currently enjoy or those you want to cultivate. Maybe you play a musical instrument or used to. Now’s a good time to engage in these activities.

Keep faith alive. Whatever your faith, be it religious or spiritual, allow a place for it in your life.

Faith can be a reminder that despite this very difficult time, things will eventually get better. Faith is a solid belief that despite any hardship you are facing, you will step-up and be successful.

Engage in stress management techniques.

Meditation, visualization, deep breathing, and mindfulness are a few ways to keep yourself calm and centered. When we remain calm and centered, we are better able to cope with the ongoing challenges brought by this pandemic.

Get help when you need it.

There are many resources for you if you need to reach out for help. Don’t suffer needlessly. Get help if you need it.

Paul Inglizian, LCSW is a compassionate, supportive therapist who provides individual, couple and family therapy via telehealth. He also provides coaching to help you change your focus, develop new coping skills, & achieve success. For more information, see https:// hopecoastcounseling.com

Coping With Stress and Anxiety During The Pandemic