Coping with COVID

Usually the holidays are a time of joy and gathering with friends and family.

This year looks a little different, especially if you live in California or any other state implementing stay at home orders.

Regardless of where you stand on the way the government or individuals should be handling this pandemic, I think we can all agree, this is 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐝 for 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲𝐨𝐧𝐞.

Uncertainty and change are not often things that we experience consistently and constantly. With that comes anxiety, hopelessness, fear, stress, and sometimes anger.

Here are 𝐟𝐨𝐮𝐫 quick tips to better manage your emotions during this pandemic:

𝟏. 𝐋𝐢𝐦𝐢𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐞𝐱𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐧𝐞𝐰𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐨𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐦𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐚.

Staying informed is important, but too much exposure to "bad news" can be overwhelming.

𝟐. 𝐈𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐟𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐬.

It is natural to focus on the negative things going on, especially when they are so prevalent. Making a conscious effort to focus on what you are grateful for or what is going well for you can make a huge difference in your mental health.

𝟑. 𝐌𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐞.

One of the hardest things about this pandemic is the total disruption in our routines. Routines are important, they help us to feel in control, reduce stress, maintain healthy habits, and remain productive. If your routine has been disrupted, try creating a new routine within the COVID parameters.

𝟒. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐬.

This is perhaps the most important. We are social beings. We need connection to others for our mental well-being. Without it we can feel isolated and alone. Find ways to connect to others, however you feel comfortable.