During the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, medical professionals have called for the community to go into social isolation and practice social distancing. Additionally, Colorado Governor Jared Polis ordered Coloradans to stay at home on March 26, 2020. As addiction treatment professionals, we have to wonder how this will mentally affect people. 

Sadly, there isn’t a lot of research out there about the mental health effects of COVID-19. However, the good news, information is updated daily about this crisis, and the Center for Disease Control (CDC) recognizes that this pandemic and social isolation are potential causes of increased stress.

It can be especially difficult for those who have mental health conditions including problems with substance use. Besides increased stress, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, it can also cause anxiety, obsession and loneliness. 

So, what can you do right now to keep a healthy mindset during the COVID-19 crisis? The Providence Recovery team has great tips for you to protect your mental health.

GO DIGITAL 

As friends, family members, businesses and support groups close their homes, workspaces and meeting places to the public, many are connecting through technology. If you’re having a hard time coping with what’s happening, give your loved one a call or video chat with them. Not only can this be a great coping mechanism, but it can show your appreciation for them. 

Additionally, if you’re in the mood to have a hang out session, find an online game or show that you and your friends like and make the time to set it up. 

• Netflix Party: This online streaming service allows multiple users to watch the same show and chat about it. 
• JackBox Party & Google Hangouts: This online gaming platform has various multiplayer games you can choose from! And, you can play with your friends over Google Hangouts. See how here. 
• Online Book Club: If you’ve meant to read that one book, now is the time! Set up an online book club meeting through online video conferencing platforms such as Zoom, Google Hangouts or Facebook Messengers.
• Support Groups: As part of your treatment, you may have been attending support groups. This is a big one. We encourage you to reach out to your support group and ask about setting up an online group.  

SWEAT IT OUT

While gyms are not considered an essential business right now, it’s still vital to maintain a regular workout schedule. 

That’s right, we’re telling you that exercise can significantly impact your mental health. According to the Help Guide, one Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health study found that running for 15 minutes or walking for an hour reduces depression by 26 percent. 

Luckily for us, we have beautiful walking trails right here in Craig, Colorado, including:

• Stearns Trail at Cedar Mountain: This trail is about 3.1 miles, is considered an easy trail and should take about one hour and forty minutes!
• Sand Rack Trail: This trail is 1.7 miles, is considered easy and should take about forty-nine minutes!

TURN OFF THE NEWS

This is a tip you don’t hear every day, but we feel like we need to say this. Listening to the news and getting correct medical information is critical, however, due to the amount of news that is coming out hourly, the CDC recommends taking some time and turning off the news, even for an hour. 

So, turn off your phone, TV and computer. Put down the newspaper and do something for you!

DO SOMETHING FUN

While it can be challenging to do the things you like right now, we encourage you to find something that you love doing. This could be baking a dessert, having a relaxing bath, reading a book or riding a bike - do something that’ll make you feel happy. 

FIND SOLACE WITH PROVIDENCE RECOVERY

Going through social isolation is difficult for everyone, but it can be especially detrimental to those with addiction due to the increase in stress, anxiety, obsessions and loneliness. At Providence Recovery, we want you to know that you are not alone in this. 

If you need to talk to someone, find a support group or are seeking additional help or treatment, please give us a call. Our addiction professionals are waiting on the other line to help you. You can reach us at 970-824-5433 or send us a message on our Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn.