More than a year ago, the world began trying to navigate a global pandemic of the likes no one had seen since the influenza outbreak of 1918. For many, the mental and emotional effects hit hard. From the isolation, loss, uncertainty, sadness and even anger that made waves through our global community, anxiety and depression levels have drastically risen in adults.

The implications of COVID-19 will continue to show as vaccinations rise, current pandemic mandates change and the world begins shifting to life after the virus. Bringing attention to the importance of mental health awareness is even more important now.

Stance Healthcare has been working to improve the aesthetic of the healthcare setting since 2006, with a strong focus in helping to improve the environment of medical and behavioral facilities. We believe that overall patient care and outcomes are influenced by the environment where the care is given. With this in mind, we build caregiver morale, advance the healing environment, and improve lives. Improving Lives By Design.

With May being National Mental Health Awareness Month in the U.S., we at Stance Healthcare think it is important to highlight ways to cope with the mental and emotional effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention stress and anxiety from the pandemic may look like:

• Feelings of fear, anger, sadness, worry, numbness, or frustration
• Changes in appetite, energy, desires, and interests
• Difficulty concentrating and making decisions
• Difficulty sleeping or nightmares
• Physical reactions, such as headaches, body pains, stomach problems, and skin rashes
• Worsening of chronic health problems
• Worsening of mental health conditions
• Increased use of tobacco, alcohol, and other substances

The CDC offers these ways you to help combat the symptoms of COVID-19 stress and anxiety:

• Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories, including those on social media. It’s good to be informed, but hearing about the pandemic constantly can be upsetting. Consider limiting news to just a couple times a day and disconnecting from phone, tv, and computer screens for a while.
• Take care of your body.
  • Take deep breaths, stretch, or meditate
  • Try to eat healthy, well-balanced meals.
  • Exercise regularly.
  • Get plenty of sleep.
  • Avoid excessive alcohol, tobacco, and substance use.
  • Continue with routine preventive measures (such as vaccinations, cancer screenings, etc.) as recommended by your healthcare provider.
  • Get vaccinated with a COVID-19 vaccine when available.
• Make time to unwind. Try to do some other activities you enjoy.
• Connect with others. Talk with people you trust about your concerns and how you are feeling.
• Connect with your community- or faith-based organizations. While social distancing measures are in place, try connecting online, through social media, or by phone or mail.

Making time to center yourself and take steps to improve your own mental health will help you be able to help friends and loved ones cope as well. If you are struggling with your mental health, contact your medical provider for help. For more information on the COVID-19 pandemic, visit the CDC at www.cdc.gov.