As the media continues to report that Coronavirus cases are on the rise again, Georgians are beginning to panic and feel a lot of health-related anxiety. This is extremely normal. In fact, a KFF Tracking Poll conducted in mid-July shows that 53% of adults in the United States reported that their mental health has been negatively impacted due to worry and stress over the coronavirus. Many adults report experiencing stress, poor sleep, increased loneliness, isolation, increased anxiety about health and finances, and changes to sleep and eating patterns, increased drinking or drug use, and relationship concerns.
To add to the stress and worry about the second-wave of the virus, many Americans are also suffering COVID fatigue. Especially as the holidays near and we’re faced with tough choices on how we will celebrate.
Now, more than ever, self-care is an essential part of taking care of your mental health. So, today I would like to provide you with some suggestions on how you can practice self-care during the pandemic.
Self-Care Tip 1: Take care of your physical health
Your physical health and mental health go hand and hand with each other. But, when you’re not feeling well and taking care of your body you’re likely to experience more stress.
Simple ways you can take care of your physical health include:
- Eating well
- Practicing good hygiene
- Drinking less alcohol
- Exercising
- Taking a multivitamin
Self-Care Tip 2: Go Outside
Fresh air has a magical effect on improving your mental health and your overall mood. So, think about things you can do outside that bring you joy. Perhaps that’s riding a bike, going for a hike or walk, playing with your children or dog. Or, if you’re working from home, try taking your laptop outside and working there for a little while.
Self-Care Tip 3: Take a break from the things causing you stress
If something is causing you stress or anxiety, then take a break from it for a while. For example, if the news makes you anxious, turn it off and resolve to not watch for a day or two. If, your family is stressing you out, take a break from talking to them or meeting with them for a while. But, if you’re taking a break from loved ones, explain to them why you’re doing that. That way they don’t feel ignored or rejected and cause more conflict.
Self-Care Tip 4: Talk to a Good Friend
You don’t have to get together in person to connect with your friend or loved ones. Talking to your loved ones and getting your emotional baggage off your chest can feel wonderful. Be sure to listen to their concerns and worries, as they’re likely having a hard time during the pandemic too. Bonus: plan socially distanced friends events like a virtual wine tasting or craft night to do something fun together while staying safe.
Self-Care Tip 5: Talk to an Online Therapist
It is absolutely okay to admit that you’re struggling with stress, worry, depression, family, and relationship issues during the pandemic. After all, we are dealing with unprecedented world events that no one knows exactly how to handle.
Talking to an online therapist in Georgia can be life-changing. You don’t have to live with the burden and baggage your distress is causing you. An online therapist provides you with a safe space to share your challenges and struggles. You will also offer you tips on how you can cope with the things causing you to feel anxious or sad during online therapy. This allows you can live a life focused on the things and people that bring you joy.
Begin Online Therapy in Georgia:
You do not have to deal with the challenges of COVID-19 on your own. Help is available from an online therapist. Wellview Counseling offers online therapy for Georgia residents to help adults, couples, children, teens, and families overcome their mental health concerns. To begin online therapy in Georgia, follow these steps:
- Reach out to our counseling clinic and schedule a consultation call with one of our therapists,
- Meet with an online therapist to ask any questions you may have about online therapy at Wellview Counseling
- Begin online counseling in Rosewell and take care of your mental health while practicing social distancing!
Other Services Offered at Wellview Counseling
Wellview Counseling is an Atlanta area therapy center that offers many counseling services to help you or your loved ones find healing and growth. Our therapy services include play therapy, child counseling, anxiety treatment, individual counseling, social skills groups for kids, therapy for postpartum anxiety and depression, trauma and PTSD treatment, chronic illness counseling, family therapy, and positive discipline parent education opportunities. Contact our Roswell, GA mental health clinic to learn more about online therapy and the many ways our therapists can help you or your loved one.
About the Author: Ashley Bobo, LCSW
Ashley Bobo, LCSW is the owner and proud founder of Wellview Counseling. As a therapist, Ashley provides individual and family therapy to help with anxiety, depression, postpartum depression & anxiety, parent coaching, and other mental health concerns.
If you’d like more support, give us a call at 678-288-6221 or email info@wellviewcounseling.com.