If you are feeling sick, call your doctor to get directions about the need to get tested and where to seek treatment. This is changing daily and best to call to get most up to date information.

These are a few of my personal suggestions that I hope will help you and others stay healthy and happy through these challenging times as all of us work through daily challenges of the COVID-19 crisis:

• Social distancing = physical distancing NOT isolation
  • Yes, it is important to follow directions of physical distancing from others, but that does not mean you need to isolate yourself.
  • Schedule time to talk or virtually talk to loved ones, friends and even your iFoster team. You are not alone – we are here to support you.

• Stay healthy
  • As you’ve heard, yes you need to be washing your hands for at least 20 seconds to keep yourself and others healthy. It is also important to eat healthy foods, get enough sleep, and drink water to keep your immune system in good condition.
  • Don’t just care for your “outside” – care for your “inside” too. Self-care is often an overlooked aspect of health but so important to help ease stressors. Self-care is unique to each person but typically includes doing activities that you enjoy like baking or reading.

• Take a break from reading and watching news updates
  • We have all been obsessing over watching every update that comes in about Coronavirus. It is important to remain informed but taking breaks from TV and social media updates can help ease some anxiety about this situation.

• Maintain a routine
  • Trying to keep to your usual schedule as much as possible can help to add some structure and normalcy to your days.
  • If you usually get up at a certain time, try to keep that wake-up time.

• Do all those things you said you would get to later
  • You know what I’m talking about. Things like reorganizing your closet, deep cleaning your space, working out, reading that book, painting that picture, writing that poem/song, and more. All the things that aren’t priorities in your normal everyday to-do list can finally have the light of day. Rejoice!

• Things to do while housebound
  • We have a variety of “Things to Do” suggestions to help you make the best out of being housebound. Click here to download.

If you, or someone you care about, are feeling overwhelmed with emotions like sadness, depression, or anxiety here are some outreach resources you can call:

• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA’s) Disaster Distress Helpline: 800-985-5990
• National Suicide Prevention Line: 800-273-8255

Author: Kimberly Khan, MSW Student at Hunter College with a BSW & Life Coach & Program Specialist at iFoster

#iamifoster