The continued impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has been challenging for all of us. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by bleak news reports and to worry about our families and the days ahead.

Here are a few examples of what to do to maintain a healthy outlook while lessening the stress we are experiencing these days.

Connect in real time. Feeling alone can lead to feeling depressed. This is the time to go beyond sending a text or email to friends and family: make it a point to connect with them through FaceTime, Zoom, Skype or the phone. Seeing a familiar face or just hearing their voice gives us the felt sense that we’re caring for the people we love and that they care about us.

Practice body movement everyday. We mistakenly think that stress and anxiety exist only in our heads, but it also gets trapped in our bodies. In somatic therapy, we recognize that we hold stress in different parts of our bodies like our legs, hips, around our hearts, upper back or necks. In order to release the pressures from stress, we have to move our bodies, whether it’s jumping up and down, rolling on the floor, moving our hips or shoulders in big circles, dancing, or just shaking different body parts. Do whatever feels best for you. Remember to take deep breaths in through your nose and exhale through your mouth. Playing your favorite music can enhance the fun!

Think of laughter as medicine. When you log onto Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video or your favorite streaming service, go to the comedy section first. Or check out your favorite comedian on YouTube. Even better, make a date with one or more friends to watch a certain show at the same time, then have a conversation about it afterwards. Shared laughter is great for the mind, body and soul.

Focus on appreciation. One thing that gets people through stressful times is being aware of positive experiences and expressing appreciation for all that’s good in your life. There are many places to look: your family, your friendships, your home. What are your favorite memories? Thinking about a great vacation or party you attended activates dopamine, serotonin and other well-being neurochemicals in the brain, making you feel better now. Call someone you were on vacation with or who attended that party, or shopped with you to buy that special item in your house, and express your appreciation. Relive the pleasure of those moments! You can go from feeling isolated to connecting with something really special in your life. And you’ll make someone else feel good too.

Resources

CDC: Stress and Coping
Mindful Leader Community Resource Hub
The New York State Office of Mental Health emotional support hotline (7 days a week from 8 am to 10 pm): 1-844-863-9314.

Amida Care currently serves over 7,500 members throughout the five boroughs of New York City, including people living with HIV/AIDS; people of transgender experience, regardless of HIV status; and people who are experiencing homelessness, regardless of HIV status. Please contact us at 1-855-GO-AMIDA to be directed to more health resources.