Coping With Stress During COVID

Job loss. Financial stress. Worrying about family and friends. It’s a difficult time.

There’s so much fear, worry, and uncertainty as we stay at home, transition to safer-at-home, and isolate ourselves during the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic. It’s important to remember there are resources available to help, along with things you can do to improve your mental wellness and cope.

It’s essential to connect with others. Phone and video calls will help lift spirits. If you live with family, now is a perfect time to make the best of close quarters and create memories. Examples might be cooking, playing board games or cards, watching movies, outdoor activities from a safe distance, and spending quiet time reading together.

Are there things you have always wanted to do but didn’t have the time? Now is the perfect time to engage in new crafts and activities. The weather is getting warmer and it’s nearly time to garden. Getting outside and enjoying the sunshine promotes wellness.

Go for a walk. Engage in exercise at home with an app or join in a live stream. Many major gyms across the U.S. are offering free virtual fitness classes.

Focus on deep breathing for two minutes every hour to calm your body, oxygenate your brain, and reduce stress. Step outside if you can for maximum effect. Kids need this too.

Create routines. Simple things like showering every morning and dressing as if you were going to leave the house can help create a sense of normalcy. Find things you enjoy and incorporate those into your day.

If you need housing help or other types of assistance, we’ve put together a resource list to help amidst COVID-19.

Most importantly, reaching out for help is okay. There’s nothing wrong with saying things are difficult and you need support.

If you need someone to talk to, call our support line at 303-617-2300.

Habla en vivo con un terapeuta. 303-617-2300.

If you’re in crisis outside of our support line hours, call 1-844-493-TALK (8255).

We’re here for you.