Take a deep breath

[Gaby0]

I just want to acknowledge that everything going on right now takes a huge toll on anyone with mental health. But I also want to say that it will be over soon and we can get through this. Trust me I know it’s hard to be staying inside, my depression has definitely been spiking but I’ve also been using tips from my therapist to keep calm and I wanted to share them with all of you.

1. Do Puzzles. They are great relaxers and also help keep your brain working.

2. Take a walk outside. Fresh air and some exercise help boost endorphins.

3. Find a new book or podcast. These are forms of entertainment that will allow you to escape reality for a short bit of time.

4. Talk to friends and family. When I start to fall into a depression episode I tend to want to be alone and not talk to anyone. This ends up making it worse. When I force myself to reach out to friends and FaceTime them or even just text I end up feeling a lot better.

Good Luck to everyone and stay healthy!

[lawdog]

Hello and thanks for the suggestions to fight what I think is "cabin fever"? Or am I off on that. I live in subtropical area and had to put air on this afternoon, so am not restricted to staying inside due to cold, snowing weather. So, could you break down in small pieces what "everything else" means for you.

For me, one thing is that everything is closed, including shopping malls, movie theatres.....guess knowing I am able to go out, but where? Other than running my dog in the neighborhood......guess that's a bit of outside cabin fever .

I know there is enough food, and although "mature" I'm in good physical condition so no fear of becoming ill from this virus.

We have threat of hurricanes every year and those I know what has to be done to hopefully have a house left.......so this medical threat is different.

How is it different for you?

[Gaby0 in reply to lawdog]

I guess it’s different because I can’t go anywhere. My school is shutdown. My library is closed. All the stores are closed. I can’t be with more than ten people. It’s cabin fever alright. For a hurricane it lasts a few days at most. This is weeks if not months.

[Poodie]

Hi Gaby.

Good advice. Thanks for passing it on.