Here's a quick cheat sheet of things to do during coronavirus quarantine (and after it, of course.)
I think it’s safe to say that everyone struggles with difficult emotions, such as anxiety, depression and stress, when they are triggered by tough situations. Situations such as quarantine, social distancing, and social isolation can make it a challenge to figure out how to manage those intense emotions.
Here is a Coping Tools Cheat Sheet when you’re stuck on what do to find some relief (especially during this period of social distancing!)
1. Read a book
If you’re anything like me, you probably have a STACK of books on your shelf that you haven’t touched yet and a whole CART FULL of books in your Amazon account. Now is the perfect time to get back into reading. Snuggle up with a book on your couch or sit out in the backyard when we have great weather.
2. Spend time with your friends/family/support system
What I’ve been seeing the most during these tough times is the sheer creativity from friends and family on how to spend time together. Group FaceTime, Zoom, Houseparty - you name it! There are so many apps out there that help us still get that connection we as humans need!
Start a Zoom call with friends
Play online games with your family (or chosen family) - (jackbox.tv is pretty cool!)
Set up a date night with your significant other
Have a dance party in your living room!
Creativity will definitely help during these times!
Plus, Parenting Tip - this is something that you can do with children. Take out all those old board games and teach them how to play Monopoly, Clue and my personal favorite Candy Land!
3. Speaking of creativity - pick up a new hobby
Again, if you’re anything like me, there’s probably a million hobbies you’ve always wanted to try but never really had the time for. During this quarantine, pick something new to learn!
Cooking/baking
Painting/drawing/collaging/scrap-booking
Crocheting/Knitting/Embroidery
Poetry/story-writing
Photography
This is by no means an exclusive list....there are lots of more options!
Parenting Tip - these are also great activities to do with your kids!
4. Spend some time outside
Especially when the weather is nice.! Go for walk/run or bike ride (while social distancing of course!). Just simply sit outside in your backyard or on your porch/balcony and breathe in some fresh air - it’s good for the body and for the soul!
Gardening is a great option too, especially, with the weather getting better!
Plus - a great thing to do with your kiddos!
5. Exercise
Now this one might be tricky for a number of reasons: no equipment at home, no room in your place, etc. But, you can also be creative with this one. There are a lot of youtube videos, online subscriptions, and you can order workout DVDs on Amazon. This can be a great time to set up a routine for yourself in the comfort of your own home.
Now - this one might also be hard for someone with an eating disorder, as exercise might be a big component for you. What I typically tell my clients is “Ask yourself the question, what is my INTENTION behind doing this?”. If you’re unsure or this question is difficult for you to answer, reach out for support.
6. Journaling
Journaling is a great way to get all your thoughts out on paper. Your journal can be a place where you reflect on the day, challenge negative thoughts that you’re working on in therapy, write down inspirational and motivational quotes, write of list of goals and the list goes on and on. This can be an outlet for whatever you need it to be!
Coping tools are very individualized to each person and to what they are experiencing, so try some out and see what works best for you!
If you need any help, reach out to us today!
About the Author
Stephanie Polizzi is a licensed psychotherapist (LMHC) in Scarsdale, NY at Peaceful Living Mental Health Counseling.
Stephanie is an expert in treating children, teens and adults struggling with anxiety, eating disorders, behavioral challenges, life transitions and trauma.
Stephanie uses a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) in her work with clients.
Stephanie is available on both Friday & Saturday in our Scarsdale office or via Telehealth for video counseling sessions.
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