Maintaining Healthy Routines Helps Reduce Stress

Staying at home, working remotely, keeping the kids occupied, searching for toilet paper and cooking more than usual leaving you little stressed?

The extended social distancing and stay-at-home orders may have many people feeling at the end of their rope. Psychology experts remind people to focus on what they can control during the COVID-19 pandemic. Tips for things you can control:

• Create a routine – Beginning your day like you would usually do is helpful. Get up, shower and get dressed. Make a list of things you want to get done.
• Your immediate environment – Don’t do all of your activities in one place. Try to work and eat in different rooms so you’re not spending all of your time in one environment.
• Maintain healthy habits – Plan healthy meals, get rest and exercise regularly.
• Reach out — Take advantage of technology and connect with family, friends and coworkers.
• Protect yourself – Regularly wash your hands for 20 seconds with soap and water or hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol, avoid touching your face and keep six feet of distance between you and anyone else.
• Limit your news intake – Stay informed about the situation via reliable sources, but limit your news and social media intake to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
• Find entertainment – Catch up on TV series, reading or completing projects you’ve had on your to-do list to stay mentally active.
• Be positive – Focus on good news stories and take things one day at a time.