Coping, Optimism, Virtue, Insight, and Durability - COVID-19

Now more than ever, we need to take care of ourselves- both physically and mentally. This is a difficult task, especially during this potentially chaotic time. If at a loss for how to cope, engage with the following techniques: take what works for you, and leave the rest.

Limit Media Consumption – Primarily, it is important to stay informed with accurate media sources. This is essential to containing and understanding the implications of the virus. Considering this, bring awareness to your feelings when internet searching. Are the sources you are engaging with providing factual and necessary information? Are you spending hours reading horror stories about all the possibilities that “could” happen? Sizable media engagement is a dangerous game; it largely impacts your thoughts and causes physical and mental tension. By bringing attention to your emotions and physical reactions when internet searching, you become aware of the negative effects it may be having on your psyche. If this is occurring, proceed to set your phone down, and take a few deep breaths. Then, limit your media use to a degree you are comfortable with- balancing the need to stay informed but not over-indulging in unnecessary information.

Get outside – If available to you, go outdoors! This is one of the simplest things we can do to increase mood; the sun will transform your day!

Try something new – Remember those paint brushes you’ve had stored under your desk for 2 years? Now is the time you’ve been waiting for! Incorporating different and pleasant activities into your day can help “spice things up” by challenging your brain and altering the typical routine.

Express your thoughts – Real talk: you’ve set media limits, read your favorite novel (again), took your dog outside, and… anxiety has persisted. There is no need to shame yourself for your unrelenting feelings; learning to cope with new situations is a process that takes time. Reaching out to someone that supports you, whether a family member, friend, or therapist, can be an effective way to release uncomfortable feelings. It is also an amazing way to connect with others- chances are, they can relate to one aspect of your thoughts or feelings. Virtual therapy is an excellent resource during this uncertain time. Review the positive impacts of virtual therapy on Healing Minds, LLC’s website if you’re interested in more information (http://healingminds.com/virtual-therapy-breakthroughs-by-hannah-sweeney/).

Watch your Internal Dialogue – Your body is listening. It is common to write-off the strong correlation between the body and mind. Both positive and negative thoughts manifest physically; by altering our thoughts, we can change our body’s response to a situation. Once, a therapist told me a story that beautifully illustrates this concept: Her mother was diagnosed with cancer, and chemotherapy was the recommended treatment. In order to combat the negative side effects of chemo, her mother had a unique strategy. Every chemotherapy tablet she would consume, she performed a meditation, where she would imagine the chemo traveling through her body, providing only healing effects. She envisioned the cancer exiting her body and leaving fresh, fully functioning cells in its wake. Her mother ended treatment completely cancer free; although, this did not come without the experience of side effects. In contrast, her positive attitude and healing thoughts surely played an imperative role on her positive attitude and body’s ability to repair. This coping skill acknowledges the deep correlation between thoughts and physiological response- the implications are profound. Sending yourself thoughts of healing and wellness may increase your chances of these exact things.

Move your body- Loving movement is a simple way to connect with your body and breath. At home yoga, Pilates, or weightlifting are all ways to release physical energy, and produce endorphins in the brain. This causes an increase in mood and energy levels. Sweat works wonders!

Create a routine- Outlining your day with engaging activities is an effective way to keep your mind occupied. This is especially important if you have children at home from school. Having structure creates a sense of responsibility, efficiency, and productivity; it also perpetuates good habits and creates a goal-oriented mindset.

Surely, this is not a comprehensive list of coping skills. Use these ideas to brainstorm techniques that best suit you- there is no universal path to healing!

Below we will answer some frequently asked questions about mental health and substance use disorder coverage in Medicare. Read on to learn what mental health and substance abuse treatments Medicare covers—and what it doesn’t.