More than ever it’s important to be taking care of our mental health. In times of uncertainty – anxiety, depression, and other mental health struggles are common. Thankfully, there are MANY resources out there right now to help you cope and become resilient. We know sorting through everything that’s available can be a little overwhelming though as well, so we’ve put together a shorter list with some of our favorite resources from health partners and other reliable sources. We hope they are able to offer you some helpful advice and help.
Take heart in knowing that this is temporary, and that we’re all in this together. The Wisconsin Women’s Health Foundation is still open and ready to help! Feel free to reach out to us and to take advantage of some of our resources like the Well Badger Resource Center, which can help connect you to community services and health professionals.
General Mental Health Resources:
“Taking Care of Your Mental Health in the Face of Uncertainty”
A fantastic article from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, which captures the emotions many of us are feeling in this time of uncertainty. More importantly, it reminds us that we are in control of our response, and that there are practical steps we can take to protect our mental health.
“COVID-19 and Your Mental Health”
While we are familiar with viruses like the common cold and the flu, the coronavirus (COVID-19) is new and presents a situation that none of us could have imagined a few short months ago. From Mental Health America – how to cope with the new disruptions and anxiety in our life.
“Living with Mental Illness During COVID-19 – Preparing for Your Wellness”
Just as individuals with pre-existing physical illness are more likely to get physically ill from the coronavirus, people whose mental health is compromised are at greater risk of experiencing worsening mental illness as a result of the coronavirus – no matter what their mental illness may be. Mental Health America provides advice in this article on how to create a mental health wellness plan.
“6 Ways to Calm Anxiety in Times of Uncertainty”
It’s common for the constant breaking news to increase anxiety surrounding the event and potential fallout. Here are strategies from Rogers Behavioral Health you can try to ease your worries and calm your mind.
Managing Stress and Anxiety related to COVID-19
This page from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides tips for coping with stress and anxiety, including information focused on parents, first responders, and people who have been released from quarantine.
Parenting/Caregiving:
“How to Help Young Children Cope with the COVID-19 Crisis”
People of all ages are trying to come to terms with the new normal—especially young children who may not fully understand these trying times. Dr. Libster with Rogers Behavioral Health gives tips for parenting during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“How to Support a Loved One Going Through a Tough Time During COVID-19”
Mental Health First Aid USA gives advice on how to support loved ones during this difficult time and how to reach out to someone who may be facing a mental health concern.
“Talking to Kids About the Coronavirus”
Many parents are wondering how to bring up the epidemic in a way that will be reassuring and not make kids more worried than they already may be. Here is some advice from the experts at the Child Mind Institute (in both English and Spanish).
“Parents – Being Good Enough Right Now is OK”
The Anxiety & Depression Association of America reminds us that in this time of adjusting to new home lives and new normals, it’s OK to not have everything together. Be gentle with yourself and the expectations you put on you and your family.
Social Distancing:
“Tips for Staying Mentally Healthy While Social Distancing”
While social distancing and staying at home may keep us healthy physically during the COVID-19 pandemic, it can take a toll on our mental health. Read some tips from Rogers Behavioral Health for staying mentally health during this time of social distancing.
“Managing Anxiety and Isolation During Quarantine”
Since the World Health Organization declared the COVID-19 outbreak a global pandemic, many of us, even those who have not been infected by the virus, will be quarantined in our homes for the upcoming weeks. Capsized travel plans, indefinite isolation, panic over scarce resources and information overload could be a recipe for unchecked anxiety and feelings of isolation. Here are a few pointers from the Anxiety & Depression Association of America that could help you survive spiraling negative thoughts about this uncertain time.