Managing Stress and Anxiety
March 17, 2020
Now is the time to talk to others using electronic means and to embrace electronic support systems to message, email, chat, listen, learn, and reach out. The most important thing you can do for your stress and anxiety is to act on your values instead of allowing yourself to become trapped in your mind.
The behavioral actions you take have the potential to reduce stress and anxiety, and to build hope and resilience. The key is to check in periodically with yourself and take notice of your physical and mental state. As you notice tension, worry, or fear, engage in activities, even small ones, such as getting up to walk/move your body. The act of planning and moving engages parts of the brain that set you up for a cycle of competence.
If you need to limit your media intake, try checking one reliable resource daily. Recommended resources are below, and more will be forthcoming.
• NAMI HelpLine with online support resources
Provides resources regarding insurance, establishing emotional support systems in place, medication assistance, and more.
• Podcast: "Stress and anxiety in the time of COVID-19"
Available from the Harvard Coronavirus Resource Center
• Insight Timer
Millions of people use this app to practice mindfulness and meditation. Included are talks, tips, and affirmations from leaders and teachers on a variety of topics, including anxiety, sleep, and stress, even meditations for kids.
• Ten Percent Happier App
This app is offering six free months to all health workers during the COVID-19 health care crisis. Workers need only to send an email to care@tenpercent.com requesting free access, and instructions for gaining access will be sent. The app features a special section named "coronavirus sanity," and the first episode offers great tips for those needing balance right now.