In the midst of stay-at-home orders related to the coronavirus and weekly protests against police brutality our mental health may be taking a back set.
“There's so much going on and it can really wreak havoc on on your thinking and how you do life right now,” said Shelly Faber, a health coach with Priority Health.
Faber says that outside stressors, such as most everything going on in the world right now, can often impact us in ways we don't realize in the moment.
“Paying attention to it is really good to kind of keep yourself in the loop. But I think there's also a limit if you feel like you're being too overwhelmed with information from social media, or the news or whatever it may be," Faber said.
"Know how much you can handle and know when to take a break from watching the news or watching the protests.”
In regards to all the precautions that have been in place in response to COVID-19, she says most of us are coming out of a fairly unique situation both emotionally and physically.
“With people being isolated for so long... you don't have that connection with people and being able to have virtual connections or going for walks with friends, it's really important. And you just don't have that face-to-face interaction as you're used to,” she said.
Sometimes, she says, taking small moments for yourself can have a big impact in the long-term.
“Even basic things that you can do yourself, from going outside and taking a walk, to taking a nap if you need it," Faber told FOX 17. "Connect with people who make you laugh, connect with people who can listen to you and talk to you. Meditate, prayer, whatever is going to be really best.”
Faber says it is important to find a balance between staying informed and reaching an information overload.
“If you are thinking clearly and taking the time for yourself to be at your best self then you can pour your best self into other areas of our community as well,” Faber said.
If you find yourself trying these tips with no relief or have just reached a place of being burnt out emotionally, Faber says you should reach out to your health insurance company. They likely have mental health resources they can direct you to.
You can find more information about the Health Coach program Shelly Faber is part of at Priority Health's website.
