EEH: How to cope with COVID-19 until you get the vaccine

The COVID-19 pandemic has wreaked havoc on society and caused immense stress. When it first hit, people banded together and there was a sense of community. But after prolonged stress, COVID-19 fatigue may be setting in.

People are tired of being uncertain, tired of being careful, tired of being isolated, and tired of being scared. People are worn out dealing with the pandemic.

Recently, the FDA granted emergency use authorization for two COVID-19 vaccines. This provides hope for an end to the pandemic. But the vaccine isn’t available to the general public just yet — it will go to those at highest risk first, like frontline healthcare workers and long-term care residents. It’s estimated the general public will be able to start receiving the vaccine in spring or summer of 2021.

How can people cope until they’re able to receive the vaccine? These tips may help boost overall well-being:

1. Take it day by day. Try not to look too far down the road and become overwhelmed with the big picture. People don’t need to have all the answers right now. Simplify daily goals into manageable ones.
2. Get up and move. Exercise is one of the best ways to cope and improve well-being. Bundle up and head outside for a walk — even a short walk helps. Too cold outside? Try an online workout or dance class, yoga or stretching at home.
3. Talk it out. Share feelings with a trusted friend or family member. Staying connected to others will help people feel less isolated. Consider a professional counselor if needed.
4. Practice gratitude. Gratitude can make people happier and connect with the goodness in the world. Write down 1-3 points of gratitude each day. Send a text or email to let someone know they’re appreciated.
5. Be mindful. Moments of quiet reflection can help release tension. Take deep breaths, step outside and feel the cool air and sun, snuggle up with a cherished pet, or savor a warm drink. Try mindfulness meditation apps like Calm or Headspace.
6. Have a good laugh. Laughter is good medicine and can be a crucial relaxation technique when you’re really stressed. Surround yourself with humor, such as photos or comics, or watch a funny movie or comedy show.
7. Eat well and sleep well. A healthy diet and good sleep are vital to well-being. Eat regular, well-balanced meals and try to go to bed and wake up around the same time each day. Strive for 8-10 hours of sleep a night.
8. Help. Helping others can make people healthier. Check on neighbors and friends by calling, texting or writing a card. Donate food to the frontline workers at a local hospital — call first to find out what’s allowed, packaging requirements, etc. Donate grocery items to a local food pantry.
9. Find things to look forward to. This can be a great mood-booster. Plan for a physically-distanced walk with a friend, a night to watch a favorite movie or new TV series or a video Zoom call with friends. Avoid things that trigger stress, such as too much social media or news intake.
10. Accept COVID-19 precautions. They aren’t going away anytime soon, even with a vaccine on the horizon. Make wearing a mask, frequent handwashing and physical distancing a normal part of everyday life.

In some cases, stress and anxiety can be overwhelming. Linden Oaks Behavioral Health has therapists who can help. Call 630-305-5027 for a free behavioral health assessment.

For more information, visit www.eehealth.org/coronavirus.