Tips for Maintaining Mental Health During the Coronavirus Outbreak

Posted March 24, 2020

Author: Dr. Ryan Holley

Shelter in place, social distancing, pandemic, quarantine, panic-buying, Coronavirus. No, these are not answers to a crossword puzzle in today’s newspaper, they are common phrases that overwhelm much of our recent news and media broadcasts. The Coronavirus outbreak is real, and it is here.

As of 5:00pm on Saturday March 21st, Governor Pritzker issued a state-wide “Shelter in Place” policy, requiring all Illinois residents to stay within their homes, avoiding all “non-essential” trips outside.

Now, I’ve watched enough B-list horror movies on Netflix to know, if someone tells you to stay inside, it’s probably a good idea to avoid leaving the house. Of course, we are not living in a movie, and our current situation is a lot more complex than some of the titles currently rotating through your Netflix queue. In actuality, it is safe to go for walks or to travel to the grocery store if proper precautions are taken and guidelines about social distancing are followed.

“Sheltering in Place” requires that you spend the majority of your time at home. This means that you’re probably working remotely, your children are no longer in school, and your levels of anxiety might be growing. You are not alone, and below I have listed some practical tips to help you and your family maintain positive mental health while you are within the home.

1) Make a new routine and stick to it

With routine comes predictability, and most importantly, stability. This will lower daily stress levels.

2) Maintain social connections

Use technology to your advantage. Video chat with friends, communicate via social media, or coordinate other virtual gatherings.

3) Practice empathy and compassion

We need each other, now more than ever. Comfort friends and family that are overwhelmed. Although well-intentioned, avoid trying to explain away or dismiss someone else’s worry. This is a legitimately frightening circumstance, and it’s important to acknowledge this experience.

4) Exercise at home

Exercise is crucial to maintaining mental and physical health. You can also find online videos and communities to help with this. Many gyms and organizations are hosting online yoga and Zumba classes, for example.

5) Keep things in perspective

“Sheltering in Place” is another way to prevent against the spreading the virus. Remember, the outbreak will not last forever. It’s important take things one day at a time, and continue to follow recommended precautions.

6) Communicate with your children

Discuss honest and age-appropriate information about the Coronavirus with your children. Parents can also help reduce worry by focusing children on routines and daily schedules. Here are some helpful resources for talking to your kids and teens:

When to seek additional support…

If your worry becomes prolonged, you’re struggling to adjust to changes in routine, or find that your ability to complete daily activities is being impacted, you may need help from a trained professional. Although in-person appointments are currently suspended, Shared Vision is fully operational with telehealth services, so that you can communicate remotely about what might be troubling you.

Give us a call today or complete an online submission to connect with one of our clinicians.