Staying Physically Healthy

The coronavirus (COVID-19) is spreading across the United States and the world, but don’t panic! While there is no vaccine, you can follow these CDC tips to reduce your likelihood of contracting the virus and (very importantly!) of spreading it to someone else:

• • Wash hands often, for at least 20 seconds at a time
  • Avoid touching your face
  • Limit person-to-person contact 
  • Practice social distancing 
  • Stay home if you’re sick
  • Cough/sneeze into your elbow
  • Avoid crowds and high trafficked/high touch areas

If possible, stay home to reduce the spread of the virus. By slowing the spread down, we can reduce the impact on the healthcare system and buy us more time to develop and distribute a vaccine.

Coronavirus & Mental Health

Of course, for those with mental illness, this is a little more complicated. Physical health can have a strong correlation with mental health, so It’s especially important that those with mental illness follow the above steps as well to ensure they don’t contract the virus or spread it to vulnerable populations. 

Easier said than done. We’re usually encouraging more socialization outside the house, so how do we reduce social interactions and navigate the changing coronavirus atmosphere without mental health taking a toll? Here are some ways you can address your mental health while staying physically healthy:

• You may feel anxiety and depression over the virus, your health, or the effect of the virus in society. Remember that your risk is very low and we’re all limiting our interactions to slow down the spread and give healthcare a chance to catch up, meaning that if or when you do contract the illness, you’ll be taken care of. In the meantime, avoid the news and other sources of anxiety. To get accurate information, visit cdc.gov or other nonpartisan, educational resources.

• Talk to your therapist or doctor and develop a plan for your mental health during this time. Maybe you can text or Skype your counselor when you’re feeling overwhelmed, stock up on medication, switch to home visits, identify a website with resources that work for you, get a hotline number ready in case you’re not feeling well, develop a routine at home that keeps you in control, or whatever works for you. Figure out how prevent and respond to the worst case mental health scenario, and you’ll be able to handle whatever the coronavirus may throw at you. 

• Employers, utilities, and other organizations have been ordered to support individuals during this time. It’s very likely your employer will still pay if you have to stay home. Utilities in many areas have been ordered to not charge late fees or disrupt service. Find out what resources could help you during this time to lessen the financial stress. 

• If you’re staying home, find positive forms of entertainment and engagement.
  • Play games with others online, FaceTime with a family member, or take a free online class. Don’t fall prey to negative comments or depressing news or blogs. 
  • Play board or card games, draw, do puzzles, or build something.
  • We often have changes we’d like to make around the house but don’t always have the time. Here’s your chance! Clean up, repair things, decorate, and make your space yours.

No matter what, it’s important to be mindful and consistent with your mental health. It might be hard during this time, but planning it out will help you significantly in the long run.

For more information on mental health and the coronavirus, read SAMHSA’s Taking Care of Your Behavioral Health article.

For more information about the latest Maryland coronavirus news, visit the CDC Maryland page here.