Stress Management In These Unusual Times

We are experiencing unusual times. At no other time is most of our lives have we experienced what the world is experiencing now. During unprecedented times like this stress can become a daily factor. Below are some suggestions for managing any stress you may be feeling at this time:

• Limit your consumption of news and social media about the pandemic as the constant partaking of such can escalate and exacerbate stress and anxiety.
• Participate in physical exercise daily. Research consistently supports that the human brain functions better when the body is physically active, and that exercise helps decrease stress, depression and anxiety. Walking, biking or hiking allows you to get outside in the fresh air to exercise while maintaining the recommended social distancing. Within your home, you can stretch, do yoga, dance, or exercise along with an aerobic fitness routine from YouTube or one of the streaming services.
• Eat a balanced and healthy diet. A balance diet is beneficial to maintaining a fully healthy lifestyle, physically and mentally. A balance diet consists of combination of fresh fruits and vegetables, lean protein, carbohydrates, whole grains, nuts and water daily.
• Get enough sleep. Take a nap during the day. Sleep is one of the most underrated contributors to good mental health. Adequate sleep can help with moods, improve memory and concentration, improve creativity, and decrease stress. Most adults need between 7 to 9 hours of sleep per night. Teenagers generally need an average of 8 to 9 hours per night.
• Dedicate time to relaxation and play. Consistent engagement in enjoyable activities decrease anxiety and stress and improves life satisfaction. So, participate in an activity you enjoy (read a good book, watch a good movie, engage in creative endeavors, or just enjoy the opportunity to do nothing).
• Talk with friends and family for support, and to support them on the phone or through video chat or FaceTime. Isolation and loneliness can increase feelings of depression and anxiety. At this time loneliness can especially be an issue for individuals who live alone. So, communicate with friends and family, by reaching out letting them know that you are thinking about them you can be a great comfort to them at this time. Remember many older individuals are not comfortable with technology and still rely on telephones.

If you need additional support or help managing your stress at this time, we are temporarily offering video therapy sessions, through a HIPAA compliant format, that are covered by most insurance companies at this time. Just give us a call at 678-205-0838 or email us at info@psychologygwinnett.com if you need the additional support.