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When the novel coronavirus and associated COVID-19 disease burst into our lives earlier this year, I remember thinking it would be like a flash in the pan. However, when the majority of my office began to authorize teleworking, my children began digital learning programs, travel restrictions were enacted and countries locked down, I knew we would be in it for an extended period of time. At first, I relished the time off. I caught up on books and drank my morning coffee in peace on my back patio. But as time went on and lockdowns were extended, I was quickly snapped back into reality. The unanswered questions of when, why and how long began to creep into my brain like an unwanted house guest.
We’ve been battling against the microscopic villain for more than six months and the extended anxiety surrounding it can take its toll on even the most steadfast warrior. It often feels as though there are more unknowns than answers, in turn creating a swirling vortex in your mind. While we may not be able to rid the world of COVID-19, we can help quiet the storm of anxiousness. Here are a few tips to help deal with the mental aspects of this pandemic.
Change your scenery. Being cooped up in the same room for days and weeks on end can wreak havoc on mental wellbeing. Grab your face covering and change your surroundings. As much as we’d love to jump on a plane and be whisked away to a tropical paradise, it’s not feasible at the moment. However, jumping in the car and heading to the nearest hiking trail, beach or city can do wonders for the soul. Spending time outdoors gets fresh air in your lungs and can help bring a fresh perspective.
Turn off the noise. In the era of social media, it’s easy to get wrapped up in the drama and minutia of daily life. Seeing photos of friends and family spending time together (especially when you’re unable to) can create massive FOMO (fear of missing out). Rather than wallow and anxious, turn it off. Sign out of social media and take a breather. I deleted several of my social media apps from my phone and it made a big difference in my state of mind.
Talk to someone. Communication is absolutely critical when coping with anxiety. Reach out to trusted friends or family and have a vent or catch up session. If you can’t be there in person, schedule a FaceTime or Zoom date. If you don’t feel comfortable or maybe your friends and family are an outlier to your anxiousness, another great option is utilizing the Behavioral Health Optimization Program (BHOP). BHOPs are licensed professionals working within the Family Practice teams associated with your military treatment facility (MTF) and primary care managers (PCM). You don’t need a referral to use the program; simply call the appointment line and ask to schedule an appointment with the BHOP.
Make your mental health a priority. When you’re a caregiver to others, it can be easy to put your health (mental and physical) on the backburner. However, when you’re burned out and anxious, it can be difficult to provide care to others. Make yourself a priority. It’s okay to say to no. It’s okay to put things on hold to take care of yourself. Allow yourself to reset and reprioritize. When you make the time to heal your mind, you can better serve yourself and others.
For more tips and mental health resources, visit CDC.gov and health.mil.
