Stay informed
Rely on trusted sources of information, like your
state and
local health departments and the
CDC, for updates.
Avoid too much exposure to news
Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories or going on social media, especially if it is upsetting you.
Take care of your body
Eat well-balanced meals, exercise regularly, and get plenty of sleep. Avoid alcohol, tobacco, and excessive caffeine.
Take medications as prescribed
Talk to your prescriber if you have any issues with your medication.
Connect with others
Use phone calls or online chat and video options, like Skype or Google Hangouts, if you are in isolation. Share your feelings with a friend or family member.
Engage in pleasurable and meaningful activities
Read a book, watch a movie, play games with your children, or work on a craft project. Depend on the activities that you’ve previously enjoyed or try something new.
Develop a self-care plan
Identify your self-care needs and include activities that make you feel safe and supported. Examples may include
relaxation techniques, positive self-talk, and social support. Review your self-care plan with your mental health provider or a trusted friend.
Go outside
If you have access to the outdoors, take a walk or visit a local park. Be sure to maintain a six-foot distance between yourself and others.
Look out for these common signs of distress
- Feelings of numbness, disbelief, anxiety or fear
- Changes in appetite, energy, and activity levels
- Difficulty concentrating
- Difficulty sleeping or nightmares and upsetting thoughts and images
- Physical reactions, such as headaches, body pains, stomach problems, and skin rashes
- Worsening of chronic health problems
- Anger or short temper
- Increased use of alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs
Seek help when needed
If the signs of distress listed above impact activities of your daily life for several days or weeks, talk to a counselor or doctor.
Contact
Oakland Community Health Network’s Access line at 248.464.6363 for mental health and substance use disorder recovery resources or call the number on the back of your insurance card.