Magdalena R. Hernandez, LPC
Anxiety and fear are normal responses to what’s happening in the world right now. However, these anxieties and fears can be overwhelming and may even cause a trauma response. In fact, some professionals have reported that these emotional responses can be categorized as
collective trauma and can also worsen symptoms for those individuals with existing mental health issues.
For these reasons, it is important to seek ways to sustain your mental health as the COVID-19pandemic has likely brought many changes to your life and daily routine. Below are some coping strategies that may be helpful in adjusting to this difficult time:
• Make a schedule
• Get dressed like you normally would for the day
• Do/learn something new &/or different each day
• Connect with family &/or friends
• Take breaks when you need them
• Minimize watching/reading/listening to news &/or social media
• Switch up your workspace (go outside/work on the couch/ work in your room/ in front of window)
• Start a bullet or gratitude journal
• Create a circle of control diagram
• Allow yourself time to worry but set a timer for 5/10 minutes, then follow up with a funny/feel good show/movie/tik toks/YouTube clips
• When a worry or negative thought enters your mind, ask yourself is this “true, false, or I’m not sure” and then ask yourself some questions to better understand your thought process & practice letting those thoughts go
• Remind yourself that “this too shall pass”. Depression/anxiety/stress can make your emotions feel magnified but they are not permanent, even if it feels that way in the moment, try to ride it out and let it pass
• Take some time to organize/declutter your space, this will help calm your mind & allow you to process things with more ease
• Exercise, get some sunlight, &/or increase your vitamin D intake
• Practice a Remembered Wellness or Progressive Muscle Relaxation mediation
Most importantly stay motivated and be kind to yourself. Reach out if you need to!
