Emotional Health during Quarantine

This pandemic has created a variety of emotions for most people and their families. Many agencies have distributed excellent suggestions from mental health professionals for how to cope with these different reactions. Here’s a summary of some of the most helpful suggestions. 

Control your information intake. Limit your exposure to news, social media and other media. Preplan what time(s) you will get updates, how long you will stay on, and what sources you will read or listen to. Choose sources you trust, with reputable experts and non-sensational reporting. 

Get good sleep. Give yourself time to wind down and relax before bed. Don’t contaminate your mind with anxiety-producing material; instead, develop a 15-20 minute bedtime routine that helps you destress and unwind. Stretch. Breathe. Meditate. Pray. 

Reduce stress during the day. Maintain appropriate habits of self care. Work out. Take a long walk. Write out distressing thoughts to help your brain process what’s going on up there and to alert you to irrational or unhelpful thought patterns. In fact, this might be a great time to start a journal!  

Develop a family plan for how to handle your new normal. Agree on a daily schedule. Build in time for team-building and camaraderie. Talk about how to cultivate a conqueror mindset instead of a victim mindset. Plan your menu together, and include a backup option or two in case the groceries you need are sold out. 

Stay in touch. Use technology to your advantage. Talk with friends and loved ones on the phone or via video chat. Reach out to someone at least daily. Avoid focusing overmuch on the negative aspects of social distancing. You might even try to talk—staying 6 feet away—to your neighbors!

Josh Waltz

Parker Police Chaplain