Tips for Managing Anxiety About COVID-19
11/10/2020
FORT WAYNE, Ind. (Nov. 10, 2020) – The anxiety behind the COVID-19 pandemic, various life changes over the past several months, the risks of exposure and normal daily challenges can be overpowering.
Emotional pain is real and deserves professional care, just as one would seek treatment for physical pain. The Behavioral Health professionals at St. Joseph Hospital are dedicated to helping people struggling with anxiety and other issues gain the skills needed to improve their quality of life. Smitha Patibandla, MD, a psychiatrist on the medical staff at St. Joseph Hospital, reminds those who may be faced with anxiety that they are not alone.
“There is no one playbook for dealing with the emotional toll caused by COVID-19,” said Dr. Patibandla. “We need to remember that we are not alone during these uncertain and unscripted times.”
Dr. Patibandla offers these tips that can help with anxiety related to COVID-19 (and in general):
- Take a time-out (find a quiet place, take deep breaths and clear your mind).
- Eat well-balanced meals.
- Get enough sleep (most adults need 7-9 hours of sleep per night).
- Exercise daily (30 minutes a day is recommended).
“What we’d like the community to know is that we are here to help,” Dr. Patibandla stated. “We have an interdisciplinary team dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of adults in need of Behavioral Health services. Talk with your primary care provider today or, if having suicidal thoughts, go to the nearest emergency room for help.”
For a free, confidential screening or for additional information, call (260) 425-3606.
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