– Develop a schedule/routine: Th ere’s a lot we aren’t able to con-
trol with COVID-19, but making a daily schedule to give us
structure and purpose throughout the day may give us a sense
of calm and order. Include small breaks for fresh air and to
refocus.
– Move your body: Exercise has been proven to boost the im-
mune system, improve mood, and decrease anxiety. Movement –
walking, stretching, even yard work – promotes blood circula-
tion, releases tension, regulates our sleep, and so much more.
– Practice restorative health measures: Th ese are things we can do
that make us feel better – sometimes instantly. Examples include
meditation, talking to friends or family, having quiet time, listen-
ing to music, dancing, reading, taking a walk, gardening, prayer,
etc. Building these activities into our daily schedules helps to build
our resilience and combat anxiety.
– Remind yourself this is temporary: “What we are all going
through, as historic and chaotic as it might be, is just temporary,”
shares Emily Medlin, a certifi ed health and wellness coach and
WakeMed education specialist. “We’re all in this together, so
take a deep breath and try and move forward one step at a time.”
– Ask for help: While some can get the support they need to get
through diffi cult, stressful times from family or loved ones, oth-
ers may need help from a trained expert.
If you need immediate help, here are some local and national
crisis resources:
· Wake County Crisis and Assessment Services: 919-250-1260
· Wake Behavioral Health Urgent Care: 919-703-2845
· Hopeline (Raleigh): 919-231-4525 (for crisis intervention
and suicide prevention)
· National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
· Crisis Text Line: Text the word TALK to 741741
· National Parent Helpline: 1-855-427-2736 (for emotional
support and parent advocacy)
An integrated approach to support physical and mental health,
WakeMed now off ers adult and pediatric patients real-time access
to behavioral health services virtually – either during regularly
scheduled appointments at any WakeMed primary care practice or
from the comfort of home. “For patients, this means on-demand
care from experts who are ready to listen, support, and discuss any
mental health questions or concerns,” adds Dr. Tomasula.
WakeMed’s team of behavioral health professionals – licensed clinicians,
psychiatrists, and health coaches – in collaboration with
WakeMed primary care providers, can help identify and address
behavioral health needs including anxiety and depression, pain management,
poor sleep, diet, and exercise, as well as stress management.
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