In reply to Age does affect time alone by Alistair Knox. Capsized travel plans, indefinite isolation, panic over scarce re-sources and information overload could be a recipe for unchecked anxiety and feelings of isolation. This will not last forever and when it’s over you will be of greater value to a new employer or even become an entrepreneur yourself. So, don’t let it,’ says Christi-an. ‘Your friend may try different movement classes, therapies, doctors, meditation circles, and on. It was my job to contribute creatively to entertaining people. A chaotic home can lead to a chaotic mind. ‘And when you’re together and your friend is feeling anxious, remind them that you’re not going anywhere. For emotional support you can call the Samaritans 24-hour helpline on 116 123, email jo@samaritans.org, visit a Samaritans branch in person or go to the Samaritans website. Find someone you can help (a neighbor, family member). We can only control our own thoughts and behaviors. For those individuals with children, sticking to a routine might be easier; however as you work from home, it could be tempting to fall into a more lethargic lifestyle, which could lead to negative thinking. We’re all living through a global pandemic. We all do. Wrong message to the public my friend. They don't care that this is resulting in a major surge in depression and lonlieness, what are they doing for these people? I can imagine it is really hard to have your financial world jeopardized, but please remember that the American people are being "put through this" to keep the virus from spreading and making more of us sick, or killing us. If you are truly creative--or even if you've never thought of being creative-- be curious. Pray with all your heart and never give up. Cleaning a closet or cooking or calling someone doesn't always make it better. If we can reframe our perceptions of this temporary new normal we have a shot at coming out of this intact. And they are all things you can do over the phone and on video. I hope that there are other pointers that you may be able to take away from the article, besides the sentence about work-from-home. I slipped very slowly into an 'episode'. I am sorry that right now you are unemployed but it doesn't mean that you don't have anything that can be of use to others! ‘Meditation and breathing exercises, for instance, are helpful for a lot of people — and may be helpful for you — but they may not help your friend,’ says Christi-an. Constructive criticism is about helping someone achieve their own goal by giving good tips and encouraging them in new ways. “I love you. Forget China, We need to make this a better and stronger country again by having a strong mentality and blogging the right messages to the public. I had a telemedical appointment yesterday...the doctor has medicated me...never before non anxiety pills but today after the first dose I am much better....I just want to pass this time with peace in my soul. I would like to thank every single person who's out there risking their LIVES, for those of us who are on lockdown,including my brother who's trying to find a cure for it. Being creative is not just about the arts. As dismal as the world may feel right now, think of the mandated work-from-home policy as an opportunity to refocus your attention from the external to the internal. ‘Anxiety can also be experienced as frightening chest pains and uncomfortable muscle tension. Reframe “I am stuck inside” to “I can finally focus on my home and myself”. var s = document.getElementsByTagName('script')[document.getElementsByTagName('script').length - 1]; s.parentNode.insertBefore(hu, s); I don't need anymore extra time to reflect or work on things. I have ADHD and generalized anxiety. I cannot take it any longer. In reply to Agreed, Inna by Marcella Smith. Watch t.v. We’re all living through a global pandemic. It's a global pandemic. If you’re struggling with your mental health during lockdown, remember you’re not alone. And maybe monetize it! Make a conscious effort to reassure your anxious friend. So this can go from bad to worse? Everything feels pointless. This particular article indeed was geared toward people under quarantine and working. Dr. Aarti Gupta, PsyD is Founder and Clinical Director at TherapyNest, A Center for Anxiety and Family Therapy in Palo Alto, California. I too am indoors since February and really miss my grandchildren who live 4 hours away. We are all in the same boat. I was a graphic designer, set designer, then concert promoter. This situation is Grace indeed. ‘Practice being totally present,’ she says. Happiness? We are… by Anonymous, We are not in the same boat my friend! Time would drag when I wasn't having fun,now it rushes by anyway,whether I'm doing an unpleasant task or something much more fun,so it is harder on young people. Here in India, the news is all negative, as if its slow death. And those people in the entertainment industry know they are downtimes and they save money for those times. We can’t just pop over for a cup of tea, or dance away our troubles on a night with plenty of cocktails. “Is there something we could do that would help?”, ‘Sometimes in the midst of panic, it may be hard for your friend to know what would help. In reply to I'm sorry to hear you do not… by Aarti Gupta. I can't go out and produce a concert, but I can stay home and draw a picture or write a play or draft a pattern and design some new clothing. Do laundry on Sundays as usual. ‘Celebrate the personal victories when you know they’ve done something especially hard,’ she suggests. With all due respect, especially for those who have lost a love one from covid-19. Ask your friend what works for them and how you can help.’. Hi Judith, I understand you’re dealing with a lot of stress being unemployed but I feel like instead of wasting your time on the internet and complaining about how life isn’t going your way, you should be finding ways to keep busy and improve your life because you’re just going to be a sad person staying home and complaining to the world about your problems when many many others are dealing with the same problem and actually putting themselves out there and doing their best considering the situation. I’m sure before Covid-19 there were things you noticed that could have been changed or improved upon. That means going out of our comfort zone at times to entertain possibilities that we would have likely dismissed or failed to see before. Also I do find your comment “ This is madness to put American people through this because of the mistake of China in bringing it over here” very racist as the increase of numbers for people being infected has to do with everyone in the United States from them not following the rules of social distancing and idiot people thinking this is just a joke and continue to go about with their social gatherings or stupid kids going to party during spring break. And they are all things you can do over the phone and on video. Tried to get some things accomplished. Being mindful during this time and setting a goal toward accomplishing something helps. It took us one year to REPLACE lost income due to shutdowns from SARS. Also, just to let you know, this is not only "happening" to Americans... the whole world is going through this together - as a human race. Every year lost with my kids and grandkids hurts deeply. ‘And when you’re together and your friend is feeling anxious, remind them that you’re not going anywhere. You have worries and problems? ‘A little space, when requested, is good, but too much space can feel like abandonment. In addition to the overwhelm of anxiety comes the overwhelm of trying to get the right support, says Christi-an. For you that might mean reading some books that educate you on how illnesses spread among human beings, how viruses don't see borders, and maybe some books about fighting racism and appreciating cultural diversity. It's not just American people being "lo led down". So if you are feeling horrible, you have plenty of company and go ahead and feel horrible because it will pass. I was suffering from depression a few months before Covid an important person in my life rejected me right before this. Time is the most valuable thing each of us has. Here are some tips to ease the strain. I did read this article and it is helpful if you are working from home. I’ve had to learn to deal w isolation and being poor, believe me you will too. Practicing gratitude everyday can really help. I’m looking to find a career I love. Judith, I understand your anxiety and anger but you were being dangerous to all those around you if you follow through with your ideas. It's a great adventure, if I choose to make it so. There are ways you can help, even from afar. I am planning to share your post along with this article with others that are struggling right now. It's difficult I know, but when you realise the source of income is within you, you will feel better. Your amount of alone time, and the quality of that time is the same, no matter what your age. I can’t talk now, but let’s have coffee at 2 pm tomorrow.”‘. If we can balance our thoughts we can in turn balance our emotions so we can think clearly and make better choices. If you did not choose correctly and spent your Money without saving any of it then you will have a very difficult time and do not blame china or anyone else for your poor decision making. There is only so much social media can provide before it becomes boring. Stay active and curious: 20 tips to help avoid sadness in lockdown Most Britons are confined to their homes, and many of us are finding it hard. It isn't punishment for something China did. Not only will sticking to your normal routine keep you active and less likely to spiral, it will be easier to readjust to the outside world when it’s time to get back to work. I am also dealing with a financial instability and loss at this time due to the pandemic. We have been groomed to rely on working for someone, that we forget how to rely on ourselves, our talents and other free resources we have within us. Get creative.. get a side-gig driving Uber-eats or GrubHub.. something. Suite #412 It does nothing constructive, especially not for the person thinking such negative thoughts. ‘Some people with anxiety need to do something active, like a run or aerobics. With all the uncertainly happening outside your home, keep the inside organized, predictable and clean. This needs to get back to normal ASAP. Maybe on your next comment you can ask, “what are some helpful things to do if we are unable to work from home?”. Don’t stop walking:) it gives some routine to your day and boosts your serotonin naturally. In addition to the overwhelm of anxiety comes the overwhelm of trying to get the right support, says Christi-an. Of course your points were very good. How to Help Your Relationship Survive a Lockdown Coronavirus-related anxiety is real and causing serious damage to our partnerships. This little lockdown--even if it lasts a year--doesn't come close, because I choose not to let it. In reply to This is a tragedy. ‘Practice being totally present,’ she says. ‘Anxiety can also be experienced as frightening chest pains and uncomfortable muscle tension. ‘It can be experienced as restlessness, agitation, and an inability to concentrate. That makes a huge difference! The list is countless and some more horrifying than others. Time rushes by faster and faster the older one gets. I think we all need to understand that sometimes there is not much advice to give ppl other than To simply listen to them and their situation. As someone who’s struggled with their mental health in the past, I know how hard it was for some of my closest friends and family members to start that conversation. What about those of us who can't work at home? For example, try not to eat in bed or work on the sofa- just as before, eat at the kitchen table and work at your desk. Can you contribute to disaster relief? Set your sights on long-avoided tasks, reorganize, or create something you’ve always wanted to. In reply to Being creatively stuck at home by Maureen. All we can do not is be patient, until further notice. Since you are a mental professional, can you write an article / resources for people like me? Stating that "this is madness to put American people through this because of the mistake of China bringing it over here" leads me to believe that you have larger issues than those brought about by the stay at home orders. Don’t feel relaxed ever even at my own home. Avoid obsessing over endless Coronavirus coverage. i think you're missing the whole point of this article. It’s important to be aware of that. ‘In asking, you let them know that with you there’s always space for their anxiety, it doesn’t need to be avoided, and they’re not a burden. However, I think the point of this article is to make the most of this time even if we struggle. What can you do to make today better? the arts GO ONthough, in the end. Different people with anxiety have different ways of managing, she adds. “I know you are scared; I am here with you.”’. Being stuck at home and not making a living is never ago. I pray I have tried medication. We need to go to our dance classes, get out at night and live our lives again. What you do has an effect, particularly for friends who are feeling emotionally fragile. I need some sort of human contact. Founded in 1979, ADAA is an international nonprofit organization dedicated to the prevention, treatment, and cure of anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, and co-occurring disorders through education, practice, and research. Wear a mask. This is your chance to slow down and focus on yourself. Even if you can only wait until something happens or something is done to you, make a conscious decision about how best to spend that waiting time. Offer to go with! It’s a shitty situation and I’m sorry you’re going through this.” so, I agree..some ppl dont have the luxury of a quarantine gig. Those are my 2 cents, get your life together Judith. I have no control and it sucks. ‘Anxiety can manifest as a deep tiredness and can also cause sleeplessness,’ says Christi-an. ‘It may seem counter-intuitive, but let your friend know they can be anxious with you,’ says Christi-an. Certainly makes my work and leisure experience more pleasurable! Your brush is too broad and your mind is too narrow -. Christi-an says it’s important to ask your friend how they are and to listen with your full body, without thinking of how you’ll respond. I am planning to share your post along with this article with others that are struggling right now. Balance is not something we find it’s something we do. No light at the end of the tunnel. So, what can you practically do to help someone who is showing signs of needing more support? I am alone - I work constantly - it does become lonely - isolated from loved ones and sports I used to enjoy - I try and make a list and do certain chores - call family - skype and reach out to others - like myself living alone. Cautious Learned Optimism :), if you will? Google it. I think this doctor is trying to offer us some positive options while stuck at home. This too shall pass - the world (and our lives) will resume soon enough. Granted, some are more impacted than others there is no sugar coating it. All the best to every one and stay safe. Now is the time for self-exploration. Technology helps: whip out smartphone to access internet or documents already downloaded as soon as I have to pass time with nothing else to do. ‘Let them know that you understand anxiety isn’t something they are choosing, and that you won’t try to talk them out of their feelings.’. Businesses should open again so people can work again. Hi from otherS in the artS.....well, ha I’ll g endured SARS 2004 and massive loss of income because we worked in the arts.....about all you CAN do is choose to I take care of my elderly mother and don’t have a life anyway. ‘Or if you don’t have time to reply to an email or text, give a quick explanation so your friend isn’t left to worry. Approaching this time with a mindset of feeling trapped or stuck will only stress you out more. Stewing and spinning wheels when you can't get anywhere is not a wise use of valuable time. Christi-an says it’s important to ask your friend how they are and to listen with your full body, without thinking of how you’ll respond. At least I still have my health. You cannot go outside to stores or see your friends or work. That said, here’s how I see it. 1.) Instead of always giving a solution “do this, do that..” I think we all need to just read the words this sucks. I'm living through my 61st summer-done plenty of waiting[the worst] and spent enough time alone. Do you have a blog or have you ever written about your journey? It’s less daunting with company. 3.) It’s a very difficult time for all of us. Dont ask for more. Don't worry everything will be fine some day. Its not all bad. Of course, not all ideas or solutions we can think of is going to apply to everyone but I know we all have experiences and stories of wisdom that we can all share with each other and learn from so it's what I am working on! I realized only yesterday that its happening. And the effort to separate people and flatten the curve is the opposite of "madness." I've been through chemo twice so I get isolation. I and many others like me have a ton of weight on our minds because of no income . There a food banks that could help you And landlords are suspending rent and Unemployment is available. ‘And know that you don’t need to hide difficult things from them because you’re worried it will be too much. Setting up mental zones for daily activities can be helpful to organize your day. Yikes - your issues are bigger than the quarantine. No matter your circumstances, whether you have children, have been furloughed, are living alone or with others, it is completely valid to feel stressed, anxious and uncertain. Or take a walk every day at 4 pm, connect with your sister over FaceTime every morning, or start a watercolor painting which you can add to everyday. There's plenty out there to do if you can't WFH. Seeing someone you care about struggle with stress can be difficult. It's wisdom. COVID-19 Lockdown Guide: How to Manage Anxiety and Isolation During Quarantine, Alies Muskin Career Development Leadership (CDLP) Program, Donald F. Klein Early Career Investigator Award, Year-round Advertising and Partnership Opportunities, Clinical Practice Reviews, Teaching Tools and Other Resources, Community Job Board and Fellowship Opportunities, Meet our 2020 Founders and President Awardees, Community Meetings, Events and Partnerships, Coronavirus Anxiety - Helpful Expert Tips and Resources, Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs), Types of Mental Health Care Professionals, psychologists are offering telehealth options, TherapyNest, A Center for Anxiety and Family Therapy. To the young person who cannot get out and perform, other performers here are volunteering to entertain outside care facilities etc. Please find a job that pays cash - get out of the house and away from your computer. For emotional support you can call the Samaritans 24-hour helpline on 116 123, email [email protected], visit a Samaritans branch in person or go to the Samaritans website. Most of us are working (telework at home and someone maybe able to talk with you about future alternatives. Get the mental puncture and so on. Dr. Gupta serves on ADAA's public education committee. Check with your union and get some facts. ‘Your friend is likely to feel guilty if they think their anxiety is keeping you from doing what you want. ‘A simple “I love hanging out with you” (and not just when they’re calm) means a lot.’. But, we all need to do our part right now. Sometimes there is nothing you can do to alleviate feeling depressed, scared, bored, just simply totally frustrated and tired of the whole thing. We also need to actively employ balance. ‘It may seem counter-intuitive, but let your friend know they can be anxious with you,’ says Christi-an. ‘If you’re going to be late, let them know,’ says Christi-an. If it weren't for that 4pm walk I don't know where I'd be. It's not just about you, this is a global pandemic, I live in a small town I to had to quarantined my self in behalf of not getting the coronavirus from an outsider who has chosen not to stay home and then bring it home, passed it on to my father whose almost 80 with lung issues who will then passed it on to his girlfriend, etc. Personally I don't want anyone who talks or thinks like that working on any movies or being "creative" with our TV and movies. The joy of reclaiming my time during the day to catch up on life admin, sleep in and go for lunchtime walks was something I … ‘A little space, when requested, is good, but too much space can feel like abandonment. Listen to white noise. Being Creatively Stuck At Home is well written and good advice. Let your friend know you get it.’. Wake up and go to bed around the same time, eat meals, shower, adapt your exercise regimen, and get out of your PJ’s. ‘Anxiety can be an inner-bully; it can convince people they are burdensome. It's possible to look at things from different perspectives. Trust me when I say that I do not want to be stuck in my home any longer but for the sake of your friends and family the country has decided to put us on lockdown. But focusing on connection, diet and sleep can help ‘And your friend has likely already done so very much research and experimentation to understand their anxiety that having to field more well-meaning suggestions may feel like an extra burden, and possibly like they’re seen as a problem.’. When I get most depressed is when I wonder if we’ll have to live likethis for many more years than predicted. ‘Acknowledge their feelings. ADAA is not a direct service organization. Take lots of naps. Also, remember - this won’t last forever and length of these limitations can be affected by all of us doing our part... You stated that you are in the tourism industry. In reply to Please find a job that pays… by Anon. “I love you. My experience, we always have a choice no matter how bad our circumstances are to make a conscious decision as to how we want to handle ourselves. You’ve got this! No matter how anxiety is manifesting in your friend, take care not judge them, and show them that you understand. [CDATA[// >