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While practicing social distancing to help slow the spread of coronavirus in New York, it’s also important to protect your mental wellness. To help you deal with common issues like loneliness and boredom, Advantage Care Health Centers has some self-care tips you can use at home.
What is Social Distancing?
Social distancing is a way to discourage individuals from interacting closely or frequently enough to spread an infectious disease, like coronavirus. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that people maintain a safe distance of six feet from other individuals when in public places. At this time, schools and public gatherings, such as sporting events or religious services, may be postponed, canceled or closed.
Good hygiene is also highly encouraged right now. The CDC recommends that everyone: “wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing” and “avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands”
What to Expect when Staying at Home or Social Distancing
Although each person reacts differently to a new situation, like social distancing, the most common responses include:
- Uncertainty
- Concern
- Boredom
- Anxiety
- Frustration
- Loneliness
- Anger
Self-Care Tips for Maintaining Mental Wellness
Whether you can relate to these common feelings or not right now, you could likely benefit from practicing several simple self-care tips that have been recommended by the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).
Stay Connected with Friends and Family
Under the current stay-at-home recommendations in New York, it’s easy to isolate. Rather than letting boredom get the best of you, pick up the phone and call a family member or friend. They just might benefit from the conversation as much as you do.
Be Active
Even in times of voluntary quarantine, it’s important to find ways to stay active. A little bit of physical activity every day can go a long way to improving your mental wellness. Although there are fewer options available right now, you could always consider basic activities, like walking for exercise.
Unplug Every Now and Then
Although TV, radio and the internet are good resources for staying on top of the current events, the constant flood of information can be overwhelming. Instead of following the news 24/7, unplug from time to time. Try reading a book, doing a jigsaw puzzle or engaging in another relaxing activity.
Do Something Nice for Yourself
During a challenging time like this, don’t forget to be kind to yourself. If you are feeling blue, treat yourself to something small, like a pint of your favorite ice cream. Of all our self-care tips, this will likely be the one you enjoy the most.
Advantage Care Health Centers is Open to Help You Stay Well
As you and other Long Islanders cope with the coronavirus outbreak, Advantage Care Health Centers is open to serve your health care needs. From mental/behavioral health services to telehealth services, we provide comprehensive health care to children and adults. To find out more about how we can help you, contact us today to request an appointment.
