Managing Coronavirus Related Anxiety & Stress

It is a scary time for our country and the world. The majority of us could have never imagined schools across the nation closing, Broadway going dark, or every grocery store within driving distance running out of toilet paper. We are living in a time of great uncertainty that will undoubtedly make the history books. COVID-19 has rapidly changed our way of life and many of us are struggling to cope with these rapid changes.

Times of uncertainty can cause and exacerbate underlying anxiety. Even if you’re not prone to worry, you are likely feeling stressed right now. There have been a lot of changes and most of us have a lot of questions about what the future may bring. If you are currently feeling anxiety, stress, or any other number of uncomfortable emotions, know that you are not alone. What you are feeling is a normal response to a decidedly abnormal situation.

During times of difficulty it is important to seek appropriate support. Just because you are practicing social distancing does not mean that you need to be isolated. There are supports available, even from the comfort of your own home. Below are some suggestions for finding the support you need:

Check out an app. Phone apps such as Calm, Insight Timer, or Headspace can provide a small break from outside stress. While these apps should not be considered a replacement for professional help or community support, they can be a nice addition to already established supports.

Consider “attending” a peer support group. Many local peer support groups have transitioned from in-person meetings to online or phone meetings. In addition to local chapters of well known groups, you may wish to look up support groups on your favorite social media platform. Connecting with others, even if they are miles away can serve as an important reminder that we are not alone.

Reach out to a local therapist. You may be wondering if continuing or beginning counseling during this time is possible or even safe and your concerns are valid. While as a therapist, I am inherently biased towards the importance of psychotherapy, I also recognize that attending therapy in an office setting is not prudent at this time. Ask a therapist about teletherapy or distance/online counseling options. Meeting with your therapist via a video chat from the comfort of your own home may feel different or unusual to begin with but it could go a long way in helping manage stress. If you don’t currently have a therapist, a good place to start is Psychology Today. If you do not have insurance and are in need of a sliding scale The Open Path Collective offers a directory of therapists who offer sliding scale options.

Don’t forget important phone numbers. If you are in need of immediate support, you have options for connecting with trained professionals:

• Disaster Distress Helpline: 1-800-985-5990 or text TalkWithUs to 66746 to connect with a trained crisis counselor
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 800-273-TALK (8255)
• National Alliance on Mental Illness, NAMI Helpline: 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) or info@nami.org