For the past few weeks we have witnessed the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) outbreak bring much of our country to a halt, driving us to shelter in our homes, and wait as news unfolds day-by-day. The uncertainty of what comes next creates anxiety in many of us, and the isolation of social distancing and quarantine only compounds this anxiety. While we cannot control everything going on, we can take steps to better manage our stress and anxiety. Here are some tips and resources:
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) offers several ways to support yourself:
Take breaks from the news, including social media.
Take care of your body. This includes, deep breaths, stretching, meditation, healthy meals, exercising, and getting enough sleep.
Make time to unwind and do some activities you enjoy.
Connect with others. Talk about your concerns and how you are feeling.
Contact your healthcare provider if stress gets in the way of your daily activities for several days in a row.
For more advice from the CDC, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prepare/managing-stress-anxiety.html
Other Resources on Managing Anxiety and Promoting Well-Being
Tips for Mental Wellness from NYS Office of Mental Health
https://omh.ny.gov/omhweb/guidance/covid-19-managing-stress-anxiety.pdf
NYS Office of Mental Health Resources for Mental Health During an Emergency
https://omh.ny.gov/omhweb/disaster_resources/pandemic_influenza/
Tips For Social Distancing, Quarantine, And Isolation During An Infectious Disease Outbreak
https://www.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/tips-social-distancing-quarantine-isolation-031620.pdf
Coronavirus: Mental Health Coping Strategies
https://www.nami.org/Blogs/NAMI-Blog/March-2020/Coronavirus-Mental-Health-Coping-Strategies
Living with Worry and Anxiety Amidst Global Uncertainty
https://4648dcw4pye15w61x1reklps-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/assets/covid-19/guide_to_living_with_worry_and_anxiety_amidst_global_uncertainty_en-us.pdf
Coronavirus Podcast Playlists: Manage Stress And Stay Informed
https://www.npr.org/2020/03/25/819164321/coronavirus-podcast-playlists-manage-stress-and-stay-informed
The Science of Well-Being: Free Online Yale University Course
https://www.coursera.org/learn/the-science-of-well-being
Hoopla
Stream eBooks, audiobooks, videos, and even Great Courses on managing stress, reducing anxiety, yoga, meditation, mindfulness, and more. All you need is your library card.
https://www.hoopladigital.com/my/hoopla
Visit Hauppauge Public Library’s website and Facebook page for more resources.
Resources for Emotional Support and Counseling
New York State Office of Mental Health
COVID-19 Emotional Support Hotline at 1-844-863-9314
Long Island Field Office: (631) 761-2508
https://omh.ny.gov
Suffolk County Department of Mental Hygiene
Phone: (631) 853-8500
https://www.suffolkcountyny.gov/Departments/Health-Services/Mental-Hygiene
Association for Mental Health and Wellness
Mental Health Helpline (referrals): 631-226-3900
Peer Support Line: 631-471-7242 ext. 1217
24/7 Response Hotline at (631) 751-7500
Community Resource Directory
http://mhaw.org/programs/community-resource-directory/
SAMHSA Disaster Distress Hotline: 1-800-985-5990
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
Crisis Text Line: Text HELLO to 741741
Veterans Crisis Line: 1-800-273-8255, press “1”; text 838255; or chat online at https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/get-help/chat