• News & Events
    • Events
    • In the Media
    • Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Services
    • Behavioral Health Services
    • Advocacy
    • Helpful Tips
  • Jobs
  • Volunteers
    • Internship
  • Support Us
  • Aging Services
    • Center at Journey’s Way
      • Health & Wellness
      • Learning & Personal Growth
      • Caring Support
      • Social Connections
      • Ways to Volunteer
      • For Members
      • Journey’s Way Newsletters
      • Journey’s Way Calendars
    • Geriatric Counseling
    • Housing Services
      • Housing Counseling
      • Housing Options
  • IDD Services
    • Residential Programs
      • Community Homes
      • Life Sharing Opportunities
    • Employment Support
  • Behavioral Health
    • Greenridge Counseling Center
      • Adult Outpatient
      • Children Outpatient
      • Evaluation and Therapy
    • Residential Services
    • Blended Case Management
  • About
    • About Interact
      • Our Mission
      • Our Leadership
      • Senior Staff
  • Contact
    • Contact
      Aging Services
    • Contact
      Behavioral Health
    • Contact
      IDD Services

Advocacy During COVID-19 Outbreak

September 24, 2021 by Maria Hays in Uncategorized

Author: Marzena Podkalicka, M.A.

As the COVID-19 pandemic was unexpected and for many, anxiety provoking, it is no wonder that news of the progressing delta variant is now contributing to ongoing anxiety. Some might struggle with how to control or manage their anxiety, which in turn may impact their ability to function in every day situations. You are not alone. If you are currently experiencing anxiety related to the current COVID-19 pandemic, the following recommendations are suggested for you:

1) The flow of information about COVID-19 from the media might increase risks for mental health problems. It is important to be informed about the current information; however, some information might not be real and might increase coronavirus anxiety. It is recommended to stay informed, but only use trusted sources such as the World Health Organization, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and National Institute of Health. Also, it is important to limit media exposure because too much information might be overwhelming (APA, 2020).

2) Education about personal hygiene during the outbreak of the new coronavirus variant is very important. It helps to minimize risk of contacting the new coronavirus and reduces coronavirus anxiety by having control over our own actions. Washing hands frequently and not touching your face is recommended. Covering your mouth with an elbow when coughing or sneezing, staying home when feeling sick, and seeking medical guidance via phone, when needed, is highly suggested (MIT Medical, 2020).

3) During the shelter in place order people might worry about their finances, lack of social engagement, and might experience loneliness. Social connections are important during that time. Calling family members and friends or using social media to stay connected helps to reduce the feeling of loneliness (APA, 2020).

4) Practice self-care during the new coronavirus outbreak by creating routines in one’s daily life, eating healthy food, engaging in relaxation techniques, and getting regular sleep. One of the ways to relax is to practice the visualization technique. Close your eyes, breathe in and out slowly, and think about a favorite place such as a beach, mountains, or favorite parks. Think of these times and the feelings of relaxation they induce. This type of visualization may help to cope with the stressors of the pandemic in an effective way. Another way to relax is to engage in the progressive muscle relaxation technique. Through tensing and relaxing your muscles while breathing, individuals can gain control over their anxiety (APA, 2020).

5) Managing financial anxiety during the COVID-19 outbreak is essential. The new situation might feel overwhelming for people. Applying for unemployment, family medical leave, or using sick leave at the office could help during the time out of work. Checking and using local resources that advertise to help people might help to reduce anxiety about how to get through this time. Prioritizing bills and developing a list of what to pay for first and checking new rules about rent and mortgage payments will help people take control over their finances.

For more information, please visit:

American Psychological Association. (2020). Frequently asked questions practicing psychologists have about COVID-

19.https://www.apaservices.org/practice/news/psychologists-questions-

covid19?_ga=2.182298151.102057735.1585087019-1216974554.1524527172

MIT Medical. (2020). Three ways to protect yourself and others from COVID-19.https://medical.mit.edu/three-ways-

to-protect

Tweet
Share
Pin it
Previous StoryIndividuals with schizophrenia and their loved ones: Tips for better communication Next StoryA Review of Treatments for Substance Use Disorders

Categories

  • Advocacy
  • Aging Services
  • Behavioral Health Services
  • Events
  • Helpful Tips
  • In the Media
  • Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Services
  • Jobs
  • Journey's Way Events
  • Journey's Way Newsletters
  • Success Stories
  • Uncategorized

Archives

  • May 2025
  • April 2025
  • March 2025
  • February 2025
  • January 2025
  • December 2024
  • August 2024
  • June 2024
  • March 2024
  • July 2023
  • February 2023
  • October 2022
  • August 2022
  • June 2022
  • May 2022
  • April 2022
  • March 2022
  • February 2022
  • January 2022
  • December 2021
  • November 2021
  • October 2021
  • September 2021
  • August 2021
  • July 2021
  • June 2021
  • May 2021
  • April 2021
  • March 2021
  • February 2021
  • January 2021
  • December 2020
  • November 2020
  • October 2020
  • September 2020
  • August 2020
  • July 2020
  • June 2020
  • May 2020
  • April 2020
  • March 2020
  • February 2020
  • January 2020
  • December 2019
  • November 2019
  • October 2019
  • September 2019
  • August 2019
  • July 2019
  • June 2019
  • May 2019
  • April 2019
  • March 2019
  • February 2019
  • January 2019
  • December 2018
  • November 2018
  • October 2018
  • September 2018
  • August 2018
  • July 2018
  • June 2018
  • May 2018
  • April 2018
  • March 2018
  • February 2018
  • January 2018
  • December 2017
  • November 2017
  • October 2017
  • September 2017
  • August 2017
  • July 2017
  • June 2017
  • May 2017
  • April 2017
  • February 2017
  • December 2016
  • November 2016
  • October 2016
  • September 2016
  • August 2016
  • July 2016
  • June 2016
  • April 2016
  • March 2016
  • February 2016
  • January 2016
  • December 2015
  • November 2015
  • October 2015
  • September 2015
  • August 2015
  • July 2015
  • April 2015
  • February 2015

Mission

Interact helps people live fulfilling lives by providing resources for aging, behavioral health, and intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Vision

Everyone deserves a fulfilling life.

Connect with Interact

Connect with Journey's Way

Contact Us

Email info@intercommunityaction.org or use the contact information or online forms.

No Surprises Act | Privacy Policies

© 2025 Intercommunity Action, Inc.
All Rights Reserved.

Web Design by Vance Bell, Pixel Engine