Therapist' Considerations for Coronavirus Pandemic

​At this time, I know that we are all having anxiety, panic, fear and worry about the spread of the Coronavirus (COVID-19). We have seen very scary and unprecedented events unfold across the world. As a therapist, I want to not only spread the message about caring and protecting your physical health, but also your mental health.
Please take these considerations and see how you can implement them into your life!
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1. Sanitize and Wash your hands: Of course, I can’t write this without bringing up this reminder. Make sure you are washing your hands often, using soap and scrubbing for at least 20 seconds. Use sanitizer if you cannot easily wash your hands in the moment. Do not touch your face in any way unless it’s right after you had washed your hands thoroughly.
2. Social Distance: As recommended, try to stay home. Avoid going out in public. Ask your employer to work at home. Remember, home is your shelter, not a punishment or a jail. Not only are you safer in your own home, we are doing our part to flatten the curve and minimizing spread of infection.
3. Limit media: I recently posted on my YouTube a video about dealing with the Coronavirus, you can check that out here if you’d like. One of the suggestions I made was limiting your intake of media, both mainstream and social. President Trump, Vice President Pence and the Coronavirus task force has been having a Press Conference every day, which I can only assume will continue during this Pandemic. I would encourage you to watch these to get your news and then limit any media beyond that.
4. Set boundaries: The Coronavirus and what the next item to be scarce in the stores seems to be the topic on everyone’s tongue. It can be extremely anxiety-provoking and overwhelming. It’s ok to set boundaries with your friends and family and say that you need a break from this talk. I certainly have done this myself.
5. Do not isolate: Social distancing doesn’t mean social isolation. It can be incredibly easy to fall into this trap if you struggle with mental health. Challenge yourself to stay connected with friends and family. If you live with family, great! Don’t forget the friends and distant family. Challenge yourself to one phone call a day!
6. Understand that food will be different: If you’re like most, you have stock-piles of food that isn’t the food you typically eat. This is ok. Food is going to be different! I love my fresh food and meals, however, I’ll be ok eating foods that aren’t made with fresh ingredients also. Frozen and canned foods are ok! You’ll be ok, view this as an opportunity to challenge your Eating Disorder!
7. Cope: I believe it’s safe to say that everyone is dealing with at least a little anxiety. Make sure that you are actively using your coping skills! Use self-talk, reaching out, breath-work, puzzles, walking, whatever you can think of!
8. Faith: One of the things that I find helpful is relying on my faith. Now is a great time to exercise your faith and perhaps even explore it more!
9. Silver lining: This is what we’re given at this point in time. It’s not ideal, but we need to practice seeing the silver lining of whatever life throws our way, good and bad. What is the silver lining you can see in this? Extra time with your family? An opportunity to re-connect with nature? An opportunity forcing you to slow down? A change of pace?
10. Gratitude: To expand on the silver lining, gratitude is a must. Remember that even though there’s a lot going on in the world today, there’s still plenty to be grateful for. When you start to feel anxious, stop, breathe and identify at least 3 different things that you can be grateful for!

BONUS: Make sure you continue treatment! Most therapists now offer virtual sessions. Ask your therapist if you can transition sessions to virtual instead of in-person. If you are struggling and not currently in treatment and want to start, feel free to reach out to me to set up a consultation.

Remember, life will go on. This will pass and the world will continue turning. Right now, let’s bunker down, maintain our mental health, see the silver lining and continue living our life, even if that looks a little different than usual!
In the meantime, I will be posting more on my Instagram and offering my support there! Be sure to check it out and if you have any questions or would like some support, feel free to comment here, DM me on Instagram or send me an E-mail!

I wish you and your family health and wellness on your way to finding your State of Balance!

You can also check out my YouTube channel for more inspiration!