Due to the current pandemic, many people are experiencing fear and anxiety as we try to adapt and navigate through these unprecedented times. Most people have had to completely shift their way of life in effort to protect themselves and their communities. With a drastic change in routine, it’s understandable that one may experience heightened anxiety and/or depression while staying home. However, there are some steps of self-care that can help you feel calmer, happier, and more normal.  

1. Morning Space – In the morning, give yourself time and space to do something you enjoy doing. Put away your phone for a half an hour, enjoy a cup of coffee, watch an episode of your favorite show, color, meditate, listen to music... the possibilities are endless. Just make sure it’s something you enjoy! Doing this will start your day on a positive note and help you attain a calm clear headspace to take on the rest of the day.
2. Establish a Routine – When you do not establish a routine for the day, it is easy to let the day get away from you. You may end up spending the whole day in pajamas, without showering or brushing your teeth, binge watching Disney+. While it is healthy to give yourself time to zone out doing activities you love, you will inevitably have tasks that you need to accomplish for the day. Having a routine will help you be and feel more productive.
   To start, develop a routine for yourself based on the things you need to get done each day, for example, create a schedule for daily self-care tasks. Maintaining good hygiene can be difficult as you learn how to adjust to a stay-at-home lifestyle, however, keeping up with your hygiene will positively impact your mental health. At first, you might need to experiment with different schedules, but ultimately, you’ll find a comfortable order of operations that will help you establish your new routine.  
    
3. Make To-Do Lists – Some people are very lucky to work from home, but for others, this free time may begin to feel daunting and depressing. In either one of these circumstances, making a to-do list will make you realize just how much there is to do. Feel overwhelmed by lists? Try prioritizing your tasks by making a smaller list of the top three most important things you need to do that day. Even if you only have time to complete those 3 tasks, you’ll feel productive and accomplished.
   Additionally, make a list of all the things you love to do each day! Examples include leisurely activities like journaling, coloring, or listening to music. You can also make a list of personal goals for yourself. Have you been needing to practice your Spanish? Have you been wanting to read this long, epic book, but have never found the time? Creating a list of personal goals will help you prioritize yourself in all this madness and will help hold you accountable in staying productive.  

4. Remote Therapy - This trying time makes mental health even more crucial than ever. Whether you’re struggling emotionally or learning how to cope, everyone can benefit from talking to a therapist. Even if you’re not amid a mental breakdown, talking to a therapist is a good way to relieve stress and get an outsider’s perspective while developing solutions for your problems. Dr. Jolene Ross is offering online therapy sessions during the pandemic. 

Schedule a free consultation with Dr. Jolene Ross to discuss a wellness plan designed just for you.  

Image courtesy of Jolee G at FreeDigitalPhotos.net