Coping Strategies: Emotional Wellness During COVID-19
The COVID-19 outbreak is taking an emotional toll on us all. Right now, you might be dealing with any of the following:
Worry and fear about your health or the health of your loved ones
Worry about getting essential supplies
Loss of a sense of purpose or connection to others
Feeling you can’t control the situation/don’t know when it will end
Feeling numb or disconnected
Feeling helpless and trappedLoss of routine, or a sense of time
All those experiences are understandable. And we have some suggestions to help you cope.
SCHEDULE
Have a regular bed time and waking time
Make a daily schedule that includes varied activities such as reading, hobbies and talking to friends on the phone
Include activities in your schedule that provide meaning and purpose, such as a craft project or writing a letter to a friend
Limit your news consumption to specific times in the day
Schedule mealtimes and food preparation
Incorporate some physical movement such as stretching or gentle exercise
Also, see the SeniorLink Schedule Template!
CONNECT
Make a list of friends or family members and schedule regular calls
If you feel comfortable, use the internet to send emails
Reach out to friends you haven’t spoken to in a while
Contribute to others – check-in on friends on neighbors to see how they are doing
Also, participate in SeniorLink Connection Activities!
CALM
Distract yourself from negative emotions by doing a pleasurable activity
Focus on regulating your breathing or incorporating a meditation practice
Also, use SeniorLink Pleasant Activities List and Meditation and Relaxation Guide!
Sources:
www.besselvanderkolk.com
www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/managing-stress-anxiety.html