As I write this, we have all been asked to stay home as much as possible due to the pandemic. This puts pressure on both individuals, who may be very lonely right now, and couples, who may be struggling to need alone time and space. Everyone is worried and feels stressed. Here’s how to stay strong in this crisis.

1. To stay strong, stay connected with colleagues, friends, and family. Although you may not be able to be in personal, physical contact with the people you care about, you can still use phone, video, FaceTime, and other technologies to see and talk to those close to you. You and your colleagues can talk and support each other during this crisis.

2. Take the time to understand what you are feeling and experiencing. If you have emotional reactions that are not normal for you, such as outbursts of anger or anxiety, take some time to feel the feelings. Don’t be afraid to cry or express what you feel. If you can, write it down. It’s amazing how writing down your fears makes them more manageable.

3. Talk to others who understand you and let them know how you feel and find out how they feel. Don’t say you’re “fine” when someone asks you. Let them know how you’re really doing and find out about them. You will feel much better after sharing and learning that others are going through the same difficulties. If you have children, play with them and talk about how they all feel.

4. Try to spend time outside, even if it’s in your own backyard or a nearby park. Being near grass, trees, and flowers helps relieve tension. Just keep your distance from others.

5. If you have a pet, hug it. Petting a dog or cat can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and give you a mental break.

6. Talk to a mental health professional. Even if it’s a phone or video session, talking with a mental health professional can help you understand your feelings and manage stress.

7. Meditate: If you can have a quiet moment alone, just sit and focus on your breath until you feel yourself relax. You can pray, or you can just sit quietly, counting your breaths.

8. Move around: Take a walk in your yard or outside, as long as you stay away from other people. Walking briskly for ten to fifteen minutes can give you a chance to relax and de-stress.

8. Play relaxing music: Angry rock or rap probably won’t help, but relaxing music, whether it’s classical, meditative, or upbeat, can help you reduce a lot of stress.

I hope you are safe and well, and I wish you all a speedy end to this crisis.

© 2020 Tina B. Tessina Break Up With You: Growing Up and Out of Dysfunction