In times such as these…when stress seems to scream from the news with minute by minute speed – nothing is more important to protect and more easily swept away than your own sense of safety and well-being.  Icons are passing on … wars are waging on … and life goes on. With the daily challenge of loss including fluctuations in your personal economy, the stress of it all can challenge your very sense of having a solid ground upon which to rest.

During times of continual stress – particularly when from unanticipated sources – we can find ourselves changing in ways that may not be good for us, and yet go unnoticed, by no one but us…

Here are some behaviors that suggest you may want to seek  support:

1. You experience changes in your energy levels in such a way as to interfere with your daily activities and responsibilities. And yes – it is important to keep up a daily routine.  It is more than fair to build in mini breaks during the day.  If you are accustomed to working outside of the home and now are at home – determine when your usual workday ends – and end it. Be sure you break up your workday with your typical workday breaks. If you are accustomed to working inside the home and find that your day never ends – now is the time to rework your schedule.  Make the rework permanent.
2. You have thoughts that are very different/frightening for you. In times of crisis and certainly chronic crises – do not assume you are the only one feeling what you feel. Do not assume you are alone.
3. Friends, who are otherwise sources of comfort for you, now feel annoying – even burdensome. Review your history – if this is a longstanding issue – it’s ok to distance yourself and gravitate to more positive relationships. If you are feeling this way towards friends and family who have previously felt affirming and supportive – it may be an indication of your growing anxiety, etc.  Check in with a professional who can help.
4. If you or someone close to you experiences a “joyful” event without the “joy” – seek help from a mental health professional. Particularly if these feelings of disconnection, sadness, emotional lethargy, etc., last for 2 weeks or more.
5. Employers/managers who are newly supervising telework employees – be careful not to allow your anxiety about getting the job done translate to poor management of your team.  Right now – you and they are in the same boat – think about what you would need to help your productivity and calm and share your approaches with your crew.  Be clear that they do not have to follow your lead – but they appreciate and are hungry for your lead.

If there is the slightest chance that you or someone you care about may be in immediate danger of harming self or others, IMMEDIATELY contact 911 and/or your nearest emergency contact/room.  There are many places to turn to for support including your primary care physical, your insurance company, the National Association of Social Workers, The American Psychological Association, www.webMD.com, nami.org,  National Suicide Hotline 1- 800 – 273-8255 and more…