| On March 12, 2020, coronavirus (COVID-19) officially changed the way American’s live their lives. This is the day that local and state governments made significant changes to how individuals interact due to this pandemic. The trickle-down effect was quick and significant. Schools were closed for an undetermined period; churches suspended in-person services for several Sundays; corporate offices told employees to work from home for the foreseeable future; stores ran out of cleaning supplies, hand sanitizer, soap, and toilet paper, in addition to running low on food and alcohol; major companies sent “calming” emails to share how they are helping to mitigate the spread of this disease; college and professional sports were canceled; and fun activities, like concerts, Broadway shows, and amusement parks are closed for at least a month. Hopefully, these are temporary changes. We are now in an unchartered territory. |  |
 | What is most important now is for people to remain calm and to be diligent in keeping themselves safe. Currently, the CDC recommends the following safety precautions:
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From a mental health perspective, individuals may experience a wide variety of emotions with these changes.
- Fear: “What if I get sick?” “The world is coming to an end!” “Do I have enough food and supplies?”
- Overwhelmed: “What’s the best way to solve this?” “What should I be doing now?”
- Lonely: “I’m in isolation to stay healthy but so alone!” “When can I socialize again?”
- Confusion: “How did this pandemic happen?” “Who is to blame?”
- Frustration: “Why is there no hand sanitizer?” “Everyone acting so crazy!”
Emotions are normal and temporary. Allow yourself to experience all the emotions you are feeling. Here are some tips to help you manage the intense emotions occurring during this unprecedented time:
- Talk to people you trust
- Participate in hobbies (solo or keeping a safe distance from others)
- Laugh – find joy each day
- Schedule a (video) therapy session
- Exercise
- Eat healthy – take care of your body
- Journal your feelings and thoughts
- Meditate
- Pray
- Get outside and breathe fresh air
Resources:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
World Health Organization
National Institute for Mental Health
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
World Health Organization
National Institute for Mental Health
Author
Bree Winkler is a licensed professional counselor in Atlanta, GA specializing in helping clients manage anxiety, depression, anger, and relationship issues.
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