By Emma Overton ’22
Editor-in-Chief and News Editor
Psychology Today
During these unprecedented and difficult times, many of us are feeling stressed and anxious. Below are some self-care suggestions for coping with the current situation.
1, Reach out (Digitally)
Although we are self-isolating, try to digitally reach out to those important to you. Check-in on your classmates, friends, and family. A simple phone call or FaceTime conversation can increase feelings of connectedness to others.
2. Enjoy an old hobby or discover a new one
Revisit something that you love to do, but may have neglected in the past due to your busy schedule. Or, discover a new passion. Baking, cooking, board games, puzzles, coloring, painting, meditation, and yoga are all stress-free activities that you can do from your home.
3. Resist the urge to stay busy 100% of the time
Some of us may be finding that self-isolation brings new amounts of “free time” that we are usually not accustomed to. You may feel the need to be productive every hour of the day with job or internship applications, long-term career planning, or standardized test preparation. The feeling that you need to always be productive may actually create more anxiety. Try to take an hour or two each day where you allow yourself to enjoy your free time as actual free time.
4. Go outside (Safely)
While making sure that you practice proper social distancing (six feet apart), venture outside for a walk, run, or bike ride. Even 10 or 15 minutes outside can help to calm feelings of anxiety.
5. Take some deep breaths
This one may sound overly simple, but you may be surprised at how helpful deep breaths can be when you are feeling stressed and anxious. A Google search for “deep breaths” generates a free, minute-long deep breathing exercise.
