Mental Health Preparation and the Coronavirus

With the alarming news about the upcoming elections, fluctuating stock market, and the coronavirus, you may find yourself asking, "What’s next?"

We are ONLY in the third month of the year. Basically, it's still the beginning of the year and the first quarter, but it feels like so much time has passed as it's difficult to keep up with all the events. 

In the news, we are seeing so many deaths including those we have followed in the media for years. 

There's political unrest.

And the latest is the newest pandemic scare.

All of the above can affect our mental health as we are constantly reminded that there is only so much we can control. 

Now, the latest coronavirus is causing panic due to the unknown effects, the sudden deaths, and the economic impact.

Here are 10 things to do to help your mental health: 

1. Ask your providers about the option of virtual visits 

2. Consider mail-in prescriptions for you and your loved one's medicine 

3. Ask your employer about work-from-home options 

4. Contact your local elected official's office to know about updates in your community

5. Contact your or your child’s school about future planning procedures 

6. Ask your medical providers if scheduled procedures should be changed

7. Boost your immune system with healthy food and necessary rest

8. Remember where the important health documents are placed

9. Stock your home with nutritional necessities

10. Check on loved ones who are in health and correctional facilities and seek information about updates on future planning for their healthcare

The list above is to help transform panic into preparation. 

Lastly, be mindful of where and how much information you consume in the news as it can trigger and re-trigger your anxiety.  

Do your best to be proactive versus reactive.