STATE OF MIND
NINE WAYS TO
REDUCE ANXIETY
DURING UNPRECEDENTED TIMES
Staying calm during challenging times such
as the novel coronavirus (COVID-19)
pandemic isn’t easy, but it’s possible.
REDUCE YOUR STRESS WITH THESE NINE TIPS:
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eating. Hydrate regularly. Aim for seven to nine hours of sleep per night. “A
new routine will help ease the chaos,” Dr. Bolo says.
PRIORITIZE YOUR HEALTH. Manage any current medical conditions. It will “Having some fear
help you feel better and will offer greater protection if you get sick. Avoid and anxiety over
alcohol or drugs, which can heighten anxiety.
STAY INTENTIONALLY CALM. An occasional outburst is OK. But staying
coronavirus is
composed most of the time will benefit you and others. Free apps like Calm perfectly normal.
and Headspace have brief meditation exercises to help you self-soothe. But if anxiety begins
GET OUTDOORS. to impede your ability
Walk, hike, bike or jog.
to care for yourself or
BE KIND TO YOURSELF. “You’re probably already doing a good job under
this very stressful situation, so give yourself a pat on the back,” Dr. Bolo says.
CONNECT WITH OTHERS. Use online messaging and video apps to talk with
others, it’s a problem,”
said Peter Bolo, MD,
family members and friends. Host virtual game nights or family dinners. a psychiatrist for
USE UPLIFTING WORDS. Remind loved ones you appreciate them. Atlantic Health System
“Reassuring language soothes unsettled feelings,” Dr. Bolo says. and on-staff at Chilton
LIMIT MEDIA EXPOSURE. Stay informed with reputable media sources but Medical Center.
take screen breaks so every “breaking news” banner doesn’t create stress.
GET CREATIVE. “Any major crisis is an opportunity for creativity,” Dr. Bolo
says. Turn handwashing into a 20-second “spa” for your hands. Create a pan-
demic playlist on Spotify.
For more information on the latest news and resources around COVID-19, please visit atlantichealth.org.
SPRING 2020 CHILTON MAGAZINE
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MEET YOUR BASIC NEEDS. Create a new daily schedule. Prioritize healthy