Coping with Covid-19 Stress

7 Tips for Emotionally Coping with Covid-19

Hello Dear Friends,

Typically I will focus my blog posts on pet related events, photography sessions, and other pet related posts. However I know we’ve all been experiencing heightened anxiety because of COVID-19. Since my full time job is in the mental health field, I thought that I would share some tips about how to cope with the stress of covid-19. This is by no means an exhaustive list and I encourage you to consult your mental health provider regarding your particular situation.  I want you to know that I’m here for you, not just as a pet photographer, but also as a friend. Please feel free to leave a comment or send me an email if you want to chat. We are truly in this together.   I would love to hear if any of these tips have helped you to cope with covid-19 stress.

 

1. Be aware of your feelings.

An important step is to recognize what we are feeling. It is common for people to be unaware of their emotions. Take a moment to reflect on your emotional state; particularly since finding out about covid-19. Many of us can identify with having felt anxious, sad, scared, angry, and frustrated.  Signs that you may be at the point of emotional overwhelm include snapping at others, ruminating thoughts about the pandemic, change in appetite, change in sleep patterns (either too little or too much), or increase in unhealthy coping mechanisms. If you feel you need extra help managing some of these overwhelming emotions then there are many numbers to call  for help. Here is a list of helpful resources related to managing stress and anxiety related to covid-19:

• https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prepare/managing-stress-anxiety.html
• https://www.nami.org/getattachment/About-NAMI/NAMI-News/2020/NAMI-Updates-on-the-Coronavirus/COVID-19-Updated-Guide-1.pdf
• https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-020-00933-5
• https://www.healthline.com/health-news/taking-care-of-your-mental-health-during-covid19-outbreak#Be-angry,-then-practical

 

2. Knowledge is power.

There is a considerable amount of misinformation about covid-19 that can lead to an increase in stress and fear. Therefore, it is best to get your information from reputable sources. You can find the most updated information and recommendations from the CDC and WHO listed below:

• https://www.who.int/
• https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html

 

3. Connect with your community.

In times of crisis and uncertainty it can help to connect to your community in some way. Many neighborhoods have been taking steps to spread cheer by doing activities such as: drawing rainbows on sidewalks, hearts in windows, teddy bear hunts, teacher parades, bands performing concerts from the street, online concerts, filling small shelves in neighborhoods with pantry items, cheering hospital shift workers, donating homemade masks, and supporting local businesses We truly are all in this together. I find it helpful to read about these positive stories in the news! Check them out below:

• https://www.kmvt.com/content/news/Wendell-Elementary-School-puts-smile-on-students-faces-with-parade-569105101.html
• https://time.com/5809613/bear-hunts-coronavirus/
• https://www.newsweek.com/viral-video-shows-atlanta-residents-applauding-healthcare-workers-their-apartments-during-shift-1494447

 

4. You are in control.

It can often feel like everything is out of our control. However take a moment to stop and think; what things ARE in your control? Perhaps it’s just something small, like making a decision to do a chore, turning on Netflix, reading a book, or making tea. In those moments knowing that you made a decision that came to fruition can bring a great deal of comfort. Also maintaining a routine for yourself day to day can result in comfort and sense of stability.

 

5. Keep in touch!

Reach out to your social support network. Call friends and family to check in and see how they are doing. Now given that many of us are in isolation it is even more important to reach out to others.

 

6. Declutter your space.

I have found that when my environment is less cluttered it can have a calming effect on  my mental state. Try it out! Set a timer for about 5 minutes in each room and put away as many things as you can. You will be surprised at how much you can get done!

 

7. Practice self care.

You can think of self care as engaging in activities that make you feel pampered. What puts a smile on your face or helps you relax? There are a million! Some examples are: meditation, hot baths, drinking tea, reading a book, playing a video game, going for  walk, watching Netflix, etc. Let me know in the comment section below what self care activities you have been enjoying!

 

Thank you for reading everyone! Stay safe, calm, and healthy!

With Gratitude,

Abby