If you are experiencing heightened levels of anxiety due to the added stress of COVID-19, please understand that these feelings are normal and that you are not alone. However, it is important that you address these feelings and learn ways to cope with them in order to maintain optimal mental health. Senior citizens and people with chronic diseases who are at a higher risk of contracting the COVID-19 virus may respond more strongly to the stress of this pandemic. If you are having trouble coping with the stress that COVID-19 is bringing, below are some ways to help reduce your stress from the pandemic.
1. Take Care of Your Physical Health
Your physical health has a huge effect on your mental health. Be sure you are staying active and keeping yourself in good shape to help reduce your stress levels. Some activities you can try include deep breathing exercises, stretching, or meditation. It’s also important to make sure you are eating healthy meals, exercising regularly, and getting plenty of sleep.
2. Take Mental Breaks
Make sure you are taking breaks from reading, watching, and listening to news stories and articles. If you are constantly being overwhelmed with the upsetting news you are hearing about the pandemic, it can cause your anxiety and stress levels to rise. Also, make sure you are taking time to do the things you love. Indulge in your hobbies and interests as much as possible to keep your mind stimulated and to clear your head of all the worries of the world.
3. Stay Connected
Although we cannot physically be with our loved ones who do not live with us, it’s important to use digital technologies, such as Zoom, to stay connected with them. Humans need social interaction to be fully healthy, so make sure you are fulfilling that need. If you are not tech-savvy, make sure to at least pick up the phone for a quick chat with a friend or loved one.
4. Make Sure Your Future is Secure
Make sure you have some certainty during these uncertain times by obtaining a Life Care plan with Glen Arden. Life Care plans offer you peace of mind in knowing that you will remain in the same community you love no matter how your level of care needs change. They also offer asset protection because as the costs of long-term health care increase, your life care contract remains at the same fixed predictable cost. Obtaining a Life Care plan now can help you live life in the present without having to worry about your future.
Glen Arden is Orange County, New York’s premier continuing care retirement community. Learn more about what makes us one of New York’s top Life Care retirement communities.