Anxiety related to the coronavirus pandemic affects us all. The Counseling and Wellness office offers these four tips to help you cope with anxiety as you transition to online classes.

1. Stay in the present
Focus on today. Don’t worry about tomorrow. If you start to feel anxious, focus on your immediate present: the sights, sounds, tastes, and other sensory experiences in your immediate moment and name them.

You can also stay in the present by engaging in mindfulness activities like:

• Coloring
  
• Deep breathing
• Mindful walking
• Listening to mindfulness apps or other relaxing downloads
• Puzzles
• Yoga

2. Go outside
“Nature itself is the best physician,” Hippocrates said. If you’re feeling anxious, go outside for a little while. Take a walk. Sit on your porch. Exercise outside. Exercise helps your mental and physical health.

3. Do what helps you feel a sense of safety
This will be different for everyone, so don’t compare yourself to others. Stay home. If you have to go out, wear protective gear.

4. Stay connected and reach out if you need more support
Technology today makes it easy to stay connected with family, friends, and loved ones. Give them a call and stay connected with them on social media. Reach out to a counselor if you need professional help.

To sign up for a remote counseling session at PC, email Counseling & Wellness or call the office at 864-833-8263.