Last month’s blog explored some of the common signs of stress that people may be experiencing during COVID-19 related shut-downs.  Even though some states are opening up or loosening restrictions on stay-at-home orders, stress is not going away.  Now we will face new stress-inducing experiences, such as returning to work, venturing out using public transportation, and facing crowded business.

The Medical University of South Carolina suggests a number of tips for reducing stress related to COVID-19:

• Recognize that we are all in this together. Knowing that you are not alone in what you are feeling and experiencing can be helpful.
• Be sure to breathe. This means creating time each day to sit quietly and get in touch with your breath.
• Reach out for support and help. You don’t have to navigate this situation in isolation, even if you are alone at home. There are people in your social network willing to help you.
• Be kind. Engage in quiet acts of kindness. They don’t have to cost money. Look another person in the eye and greet them warmly when you pass them on the street.
• Look for the positive. It is easy to focus on the negative at a time like this. Make an effort to notice positive things going on around you.
• Limit your exposure to social media and news coverage. Put yourself on a media diet and only seek information from reliable resources.
• Adjust your language. If you notice that you are repeating negative phrases, such as “Everything has changed for the worse,” try to change that to, “Things are definitely different, but I will be able to adjust to the new normal.”
• Use technology for good! Explore apps (Calm) and podcasts (Ten Percent Happier) that promote healthy living.
• Stay connected with friends and loved ones in creative ways. Attend religious services online, organize a sing-along over Zoom, or challenge someone to a friendly game of online Scrabble.

To read more of the ideas shared in the article, click here.