The WORLD is talking about the Coronavirus or COVID-19. In
addition, people are beginning to feel increasing levels of anxiety, worry, or
fear around their health status or that of others.
All of this anxiety, worry and fear can affect your MENTAL
health, so it is not the time to ignore it.
In addition to informing us about the virus and the steps to
take in order to prevent it, the CDC has also provided a page on their Coronavirus
site to for Mental Health and Coping (HERE: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/coping.html
).
Here are some of the recommendations from the CDC to help
support your mental health during this time:
-
Avoid excessive exposure to media coverage of
COVID-19
-
Take care of your body. Take deep
breaths, stretch or meditate. Try to eat healthy, well-balanced meals, exercise
regularly, get plenty of sleep and avoid alcohol and drugs.
-
Make time to unwind and remind yourself that
strong feelings will fade. Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening
to news stories. It can be upsetting to hear about the crisis and see images
repeatedly. Try to do some other activities you enjoy to return to your normal
life.
-
Connect with others. Share your concerns
and how you are feeling with a friend or family member. Maintain healthy
relationships.
-
Maintain a sense of hope and positive
thinking.
Stay up to date (with the correct sources!) on the spread and
prevention of COVID-19. With that, pay attention to your mental health during
this time of global stress. Stay up to date on how you’re experiencing this stress
by paying attention to your body, emotions, behavior and thinking. Contact your
correct sources for any mental health needs.
With hope,
Mind Body Co-op
