As we enter week 3 of COVID-19, we continue to adjust to our new, ever evolving life circumstances. The transition to working from home has become real.  The initial challenges for some, of getting used to online classes, getting computers up and running, have hopefully been worked out. The process of adjusting continues as each week brings new challenges academically, professionally, personally, and emotionally. 

Last week‘s tips remain relevant and necessary to maintain one’s physical and emotional health during the COVID-19 pandemic.  

Here is a reminder:

• CHANGE: Recognizing we are all adjusting and that it is an ongoing process to adjust.

• INFORMATION OVERLOAD: Prevent information overload and monitor news input.

• SELF-CARE: Actively engage in self-care.

• CONNECT: Use Social media to stay connected to family, friends and classmates.

• POSITIVE SELF-TALK & MINDFULNESS: Engage in positive self-talk and mindfulness.

Moving into week 3 of COVID-19, the new challenges seem to be about working from home. For many of us, not commuting to school and or work frees up time we can devote to other areas of our lives. However, some may experience challenges focusing and find it hard to stay on task, whether because of anxiety attributed to the pandemic, the distraction of having all our “stuff” around us while we are trying to work, or having to work alongside other adults and children who might be home as well. Be mindful regarding what obstacles are presently keeping you from focusing. Be mindful that none of this is going to be perfect. Keep life simple and aim for good enough.

Here are some general tips that might help in the adjustment process to increase FOCUS on work.  Please keep in mind, you are creating new habits, habits take time to build:

• Set Daily Goals;

• Prioritize Tasks;

• Set Deadlines and Try to Stick to Them;

• Keep Tasks Manageable;

• Put Away Your Cellphone;

• One Task At a Time;

• Eliminate Pointless Distractions.

Those individuals with children at home may find focusing and getting work done particularly challenging.  Good communication and planning schedules is key with children and any adult with whom you are co-parenting. Try to eliminate the element of surprise as best you can. 

Additional tips for those with children include:

• Set realistic goals and create a support system that might include family members, neighbors or other working from home parents;

• Wake Up Earlier – quiet, interruption free time;

• Try to keep children busy in the morning so the afternoon can be more chill activities;

• Be Flexible;

• Reward Good Behavior;

• Take Breaks;

• Plan supervised and un-supervised activities that are age appropriate;

• Create a “Creativity Box” – organize art supplies and art options children can create independently;

• Integrate children into your fitness routine – everyone take a walk together or do yoga together.  Obviously it won’t be as rigorous, but it is something.

If you would like to schedule a Telehealth session with Dr. Penni Morganstein, please contact her via email at: penni.morganstein@NYSID.edu.

Below, please find Online Therapy Resources that are suggestions and not endorsed by NYSID Counseling Center:  

Talkspace 

Online Counseling:
Betterhelp  

Couples:
Regain 
Teen Counseling 

LGBTQ:
Pride Counseling

Mental Health Consultation:
Amwell 

Peer Support:
7 Cups of Tea 

Free Assessment:
Doctor of Demand    

Access to a Psychiatrist:
MDlive