Reducing Stress During the COVID-19 Crisis

By Diane Lee, Public Information Officer, Garrett County Health Department

Staying at home during the COVID-19 crisis has become the new way of life. Now, the idea of things opening back up brings on diverse emotions for different people.

“A very natural feeling as things change again is anxiety regarding the possibility of getting exposed to COVID-19,” said Les McDaniel, Director of the Behavioral Health Division of the Garrett County Health Department. “Many people, including those over sixty years of age and those with suppressed immune systems, are wanting to stay safe when the inevitability of leaving their ‘safe’ environment happens.” 

Effective Friday, May 15, at 5:00 pm, Maryland moved from a Stay-at-Home order to a Safer-at-Home public health advisory. The Governor’s new directive strongly advises Marylanders to continue staying home as much as possible. Although more businesses, as well as churches, are being allowed to open, the Governor’s new Order includes restrictions and many best practice recommendations to try to minimize the spread of virus.

Feelings of fear, anxiety, and sadness are normal during a pandemic. Fortunately, being proactive about your mental health can help to keep both your mind and body stronger. One way to reduce stress is to avoid excessive exposure to media coverage of COVID-19, by taking breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories. 

So many things are out of your control, but recognizing the things you can control may help. You can take care of your body, take deep breaths, stretch and meditate. As much as you can, try to eat healthy, well-balanced meals, exercise regularly, get plenty of sleep and avoid alcohol and drugs. 

You can also make time to unwind and remind yourself that strong feelings will fade. Share your concerns and how you are feeling with a friend or family member. 

“The worry is always there, but the fear will be lessened and more manageable when a person follows the recommended guidelines,” said McDaniel. “However, a lot of folks will still be concerned that something or someone will cause them to be compromised.”

McDaniel recommends engaging in some mental exercises that may ease stress levels, such as helping another person, watching a good movie, making a gratitude list or watching a sunrise or sunset.

“Pray a short prayer for the situation, for a relative or a friend, for someone in need, or for more faith,” McDaniel said.

In addition to the Safer-at-Home advisory, the Governor recommends that employers continue to encourage telework for their employees when possible. Also, Marylanders should continue: wearing masks in indoor public areas, retail stores, and on public transportation; practicing physical distancing; avoiding gatherings of more than 10 people; washing their hands often; and frequently sanitize high-touch areas.