LYME SCI: Reducing anxiety and stress about COVID-19
California’s governor has ordered the entire state to “shelter at home.” Other localities are restricting people’s movements as well. Millions of Americans are either working from home or out of work entirely for the foreseeable future.
Like many of you, I have been glued to the news, trying to learn and understand how bad this is going to get. I completely agree with the concept of social distancing and even social isolation during a pandemic.
However, I am also concerned about the mental health of people who are not used to being confined to their homes.
Knowing that stress adversely affects the immune system, I recommend that each of you build time into your day to find something that brings you a sense of peace and joy.
These are unprecedented times. I have not seen the country in such crisis mode since 9/11. On that fateful morning, my children were very young. Although my husband and I were riveted by the news, we didn’t want it to affect our children. We made a concerted effort to protect them from what was happening.
Coping strategies
Lucky for us all, Congress has passed a bill to allow doctors and therapists to conduct sessions via Telehealth. So, if you are in crisis, please reach out to your medical or mental health team today.
First and foremost, make sure that you are prepared. If you lack food, reach out to your local food bank or wellness kitchen. If you are eligible, file for unemployment, family medical leave or the 14 days of sick time just approved by Congress.
Because we don’t know how long this crisis will continue, here are some suggestions on how you can distance yourself from the constant news cycle and possibly find some peace.
Tips for Passing Time While Self-Isolating With Coronavirus
Education Companies Offering Free Subscriptions Due to School Closings
Coursera | Free Courses from the worlds top Universities
Talkspace’s Mental Health Resources for COVID-19
Commune virtual yoga + meditation
Insight Timer – Meditation App
Bloom Psychology | How to Self-Care in A Crisis
Start a cyber book club with your friends on social media
Listen to music
NASA entire media library free to the public
Monterey Bay Aquarium | Ten live cams
Surviving Social Distancing with Your Kids
IKARIA | Stay connected while quarantined
QuiteKit | Guided Meditation for Beginners
New York Public Library | Free Online Magazines & Newspapers
Free for medical providers
Supportiv | For Health Workers While You Combat COVID-19
Headspace | Free for Healthcare Providers
LymeSci is written by Lonnie Marcum, a Licensed Physical Therapist and mother of a daughter with Lyme. Follow her on Twitter: @LonnieRhea Email her at: lmarcum@lymedisease.org .
