• Be intentional about connecting with others and prioritize face-to-face contact while staying in line with social distancing guidance. Try utilizing technology, such as video chat and voice-based communication. It can also be fun to mix up written communication by sending an old-fashioned hand-written letter or card.
• Establish a routine. Structure when everything is so unpredictable can create a sense of normalcy. Consider a written schedule of activities that prioritize your goals and values.
• Limit exposure to social media and news feeds. Consider checking them only at certain times to stay informed without becoming overly consumed.
• Make sure information is coming from a reliable source, such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or the World Health Organization.
• Focus on the positives. Elevated stress and anxiety can cause negative thinking, which can lead to hopelessness and feeling detached from others. Consider keeping a gratitude journal to stay mindful of all the things there are to appreciate. Writing down a few things a day can help trick the brain into looking for positives no matter how small. They can be as simple as a morning cup of coffee or a favorite snack.
• Focus on personal betterment. Prioritizing sleep, diet and exercise can be helpful as these are often habits that get derailed with significant routine change.
• Get active. Look for ways to be more physically active. With gyms closed, it can make things more challenging. Considering looking into at-home work outs and smart phone apps that help you track your progress.
• Document the experience. This is a unique period in history. Consider what to tell loved ones when they ask what it was like during this time. This can facilitate hope, and it can serve as a reminder to make the most of the present moment.
If these tips do not prove to be enough, that is normal. There are many resources available to help military and civilian personnel.
For anyone looking for help during these uncertain times you can contact these agencies:
• Military One Source: 1-800-342-9647; www.militaryonesource.mil; www.militaryonesource.mil/coronavirus
• Chaplains: 937-257-7427
• Air Force Employee Assistance Program (EAP): 1-800-222-0364 (1-888-262-7848 TTY); EAP www.FOH4You.com or www.Worklife4you www.worklife4you.com (use code USAF)
• Civilian Health Promotion Services (CHPS): www.USAFwellness.com or email CHPSsupport@us.af.mil
• Mental Health Clinic: 937-257-6877
• Military Crisis Line: 1-800-273-7427
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