Staying up to date on coronavirus might seem impossible. Staying calm after reading the news can feel even harder. There is so much information—and misinformation—online right now that sorting out what is Fact vs. Fiction can be difficult. And because social media prioritizes crisis content in your feed, this information is everywhere you look.
So it’s important to know what information is trustworthy and what you can do if you are feeling overwhelmed.
Things you can do if you feel stressed or anxious by COVID-19.
We know that this is a lot and it can feel overwhelming—especially when you are stuck at home all day. Luckily, there are ways to help yourself stay cool, calm, and collected during these hectic times.
- Talk it out. Whether it’s with a friend, a family member, a trusted adult, or a therapist, talking through the things that weigh on you—no matter how big or small—is an important part of self-care.
- Need someone to talk to? Teen Link provides free, confidential help to teens. Find out more at www.teenlink.org.
- Achieve ultimate Zen with meditation or art therapy to help destress.
- Virtually connect with people to check-in and see friends. You can host a virtual movie night where friends watch the same movie together online or binge-watch a series together.
- Reconnect with your home (both your space and the people around you!). Try moving your bedroom furniture around for a different layout or try making dinner for your family.
- Journal. Take all those thoughts that may be cluttering your headspace and write them down.
- Create a “Staying at Home” playlist and share with friends. Don’t be afraid to then take it up a level and host a virtual dance party.
We get that so many things have changed and that we’ve had to press pause on some major events. It’s hard—and it’s okay to miss these things, as well as the small, normal routines of daily life. But it’s important to remember that these moments show us just how strong we are and that we are still able to laugh, learn, and stick together even while apart. And if you’re struggling, know that it’s okay to reach out for help. We can—and will—get through this together.