Self-care is critical for survival

We live in a world full of anxiety and uncertainty. Beyond any political and social anxieties, we live amidst economic uncertainty, environmental concerns and a pandemic. According to a recent national poll by the American Psychiatric Association, most of us live with an expressed doubt about our future; 48% of us live with fear of getting coronavirus; 68% of us are fearful of a friend or loved one getting it; and 40% (or nearly 4 in 10) live daily with some fear of dying. These stresses can be threats to our population, our personal health and our survival. The prestigious McKinsey Global Institute has documented that in addition to these anxieties, we are exhibiting higher levels of personal stress, anxiety and depression. We now use more alcohol and other drugs, have increased demand for assistance for domestic abuse, have generated increased need for child advocacy services and, perhaps saddest of all, have increases in overdose and suicide fatalities. Some mental health professionals refer to these societal symptoms as "diseases of despair." The coronavirus pandemic is but one aspect of our social disease. Considering the pandemic, many choose to be confined for safety. We have lost our safe personal space distance — now 6 feet minimum. We have diminished our social and family contacts, donned masks, become hyper-sensitive — even to small things. We have disrupted our sleep and maybe even gained weight. Moreover, as disturbing numbers of hospitalizations grow daily, we are often left to hold only on to hope — or prayer — for a vaccine and a return to normal. It is a challenging time. For many, it is the most challenging time of our lives. So, what are we to do? How can we cope with these daily challenges? Are there ways our mental attitude, relationships, faith, actions and social support services can help to get us through this? The Hancock County Board of Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services want to remind all that: 1) you are not alone — help is here; and 2) there are many things you can do to get through this challenging time. Self-care is the first step for survival. Have a plan for each day. Keep structure for yourself and your family. Keep time daily for restorative or self-renewing activities like reading, faith, play, hobbies, journal, exercise and conversation. A positive and balanced attitude strengthens our immunity to illness. Limit negative influences. Control media that may upset you to just 20 minutes, two times a day. Most media want to sell the sensational, which is always emotional to the receiver. Limit negativity and be present and focus on constructive and positive things. Reach out to others. Do not be alone, and if you know someone who is, check on them. Isolation and loneliness can be deadly. Connectivity is shared strength. Thank a store clerk or teacher. As Mark Twain noted, "Kindness is a language the Deaf can hear and the Blind can see." Test it out. Your mood will lift. Remember too, our children are living on screens today. Many schools have become virtual or hybrid. Children now need more off-screen time. Children will do better with more one-on-one interaction, more play and creativity, outside activity, being with friends and regular sleep. The guiding rule here is simple: As the parent's health goes, generally, so does the child's. Parental health and attitude nurture your children's health and attitude. Stay positive for them. Many times, self-care may not be enough. Don't be afraid to reach out to a neighbor, friend, pastor, community service agency, local police, or medical or mental health professional. Medication, for some, is there. Remember that you are not alone in this. Hundreds of support meetings are now offered 24/7 virtually. Just Google what you are seeking, using search terms such as "anxiety" or "Alcoholics Anonymous," and you will likely find the support you need. Locally, Hancock County has a crisis hotline: 1-888-936-7116. You may also text "HOPE" to 741741. These services can offer help immediately. There is also a National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (8255) or for Spanish-speaking people, 888-628-9454. And for veterans, there is also a special help line at 800-273-8255 — or text 838255. Never be alone. Never let someone you are concerned about today be alone. There is a lot we can do to survive today. Care is the thread by which we are all joined. It binds relationships, families and communities together. It sustains us — now and in the future. In the end, this virus will be defeated because of our care. Flaherty, a clinical psychologist from Pennsylvania, is a consultant for the Hancock County Board of Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services and its Recovery Oriented System of Care.