The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has caused significant anxiety across the world and is impacting our everyday lives in unimaginable ways. As a society, we are being asked to implement measures i.e. social distancing, self-quarantine, travel and social restrictions, increased hygiene that is new and at times uncomfortable. However in an effort to help thwart the spread of this disease and its potentially lethal effects, please take heed to the precautions that have been advised by the Center for Disease Control, World Health Organization and state and local government. If you are feeling ill (sneezing, fever, runny nose, breathing difficulties, etc) and/or choose/need to stay home, please do so.

Regarding your therapy appointment, check with your therapist to determine available options. Most therapists are offering online video and phone sessions.

For more information on best practices regarding the coronavirus (COVID-19) see below:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/index.html
https://www.who.int/news-room/q-a-detail/q-a-coronaviruses

If you are feeling anxious, remember to practice your deep breathing (see attachment), body scan, progressive muscle relaxation, self-kindness and self-compassion. In addition, stay informed but take breaks from watching the news all day or spending all day on social media. Use this time to read a book you’ve been meaning to, contact the elderly or someone who may need assistance (you can either send groceries to their home using a grocery delivery service or drop them off on their porch), complete a puzzle, discover a new hobby, play board/card/video games with your family, exercise, practice yoga, develop your side or new hustle, reorganize your closet, clean the garage, donate to a food bank or other charitable organization, stay connected with friends/family via FaceTime, Duo or other video method or call them, create music or a new playlist – try your hand at DJ-ing, try new recipes, catch up on a television show or a movie, journal, begin writing a work of fiction, paint/draw/sculpt, or use meditation apps ie. Calm, Ten Percent Happier, Journey, Stop, Breathe & Think, Smiling Mind, Fabulous, Meditopia. This is a difficult time for all of us. Try your best to center yourself, stay grounded and practice self-care and consideration of and for others.

Remember to wash your hands for at least 20 seconds often and follow the recommendations made by the Centers for Disease Control and World Health Organization as well as your local government.