Mental health advocates warn that the end of lockdowns may lead to more anxiety as people try to adapt to the new normal.
Dr. Tonya Hansel with the Tulane School of Social Work says to start you should limit your news intake so as not to overstimulate yourself while trying to safely navigate the outside world.
“Really just the concept of unplugging in general. Social media has been fantastic for keeping us connected but we do need to take breaks,” says Hansel.
She says if you log in and don’t see any new news to read, put down your phone and don’t check it for a few hours.
Hansel says another way to relieve stress is to reconnect with friends and family outside of your household in safe, outdoor environments.
“Definitely reaching out and connecting with people that we have not been able to,” says Hansel.
Experts say viral transmission is a lot less likely outdoors than it is indoors.
Hansel also says another good way to fight stress is to volunteer or donate to causes aimed at helping those impacted by the virus.
“It does not have to be big, it does not have to be monetary, but just kind of letting them know that we are still supporting and caring, and that we are there as a community through to the end,” says Hansel.
She also mentioned wearing a mask while in public can help lower your stress levels when having to leave the house.
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