The COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically altered everyone’s lives, and every day we absorb more disappointing and alarming news, from the growing health scare to quarantines to school and business closures to the stock market freefall.
 
Parents are struggling to work from home while simultaneously home school their kids, and men and women in service industry jobs (along with many others) are wondering how they’re going to pay their bills without a paycheck. It’s an unimaginably stressful time that has no parallel. All with no clear end in sight. Keeping the stress and anxiety in check is imperative for everyone, and we have some suggestions to help.
 

1. Establish a daily routine for yourself and your kids. Following a routine helps limit anxiety because we know what to expect and we can feel in control of some aspect of our daily life.
2. Listen to music. Scientific studies show that music improves mood and reduces stress.
3. Exercise. Although gyms and group classes are out, take an exercise class online, go for a walk or bike ride. Exercise is proven to help reduce stress and lift mood.
4. Laughter. The old anecdote that laughter is the best medicine is worth paying attention to. Watch a comedy show or movie, download a comedy app or follow your favorite jokesters on social media for some occasional comic relief.
5. Even though we are social distancing, stay connected to family and friends. Call, Skype, Facetime or text. Isolation can exacerbate loneliness and anxiety, so make a daily effort to connect with the people you care about.
6. Force yourself to turn off the news periodically. Reading and watching the constant barrage of news about the pandemic is going to heighten anxiety. Force yourself to take a break.
7. Candles and essential-oil diffusers are helpful for relaxation and improving mood.
8. Spend some time every day enjoying a hobby or fun activity or try out some new ones. Maybe gardening, baking, reading or yoga. If you have kids, play with them – Legos, make believe, puzzles, arts and crafts, scavenger hunts or any other activity that would be fun for everyone.
9. Help someone else. Offer to bring groceries or supplies to a friend or neighbor who is elderly or with greater health risks who really need to avoid the COVID-19 virus. Make cards or artwork with your kids that you can send to a local assisted living facility. The residents can’t have visitors right now, but a card could bring a smile. Doing something to help others makes you feel happier.
10. Meditation, mindfulness exercises and deep breathing techniques can also help. You can search online for instructions on any of these.
11.  If you are feeling overwhelmed and anxious, talk to someone. Call a friend or family member or find a therapist online. Sites like Betterhelp.com, talkspace.com and others offer counseling services with licensed therapists via text, video and audio.
12. Seek out spiritual guidance and support. Check if your church, synagogue or place of worship is offering online services or support through digital communication. Perhaps your weekly Bible study can meet via videoconference.
13. Remind yourself you are not alone. We are all in this together, and we will get through it.