With the ongoing coronavirus outbreak, Alaska is adjusting to changes in life as rules and regulations are developed to protect people’s health. Coping with these changes can be stressful, but there are many steps you can take to ease into this transition, from counseling to approaching challenges with a new way of thinking. Consider the following tips to help you adjust to these unprecedented circumstances.

How Can You Work to Live with COVID-19?

Adapting to COVID-19 starts with understanding the recommendations of medical professionals. These standards involve wearing masks, practicing social distancing, and frequently washing your hands. If you experience anxiety when wearing a mask, look for a more breathable option, whether it’s a disposable style, a cloth cover, or a neck gaiter.

Additionally, if you are feeling the isolating impacts of social distancing, schedule time to connect with friends or family members over a virtual communication system, such as Skype® or FaceTime®. Following a routine and having virtual events to look forward to can improve your mood as you stay at home.

Can You Help Others Embrace the New Normal?

You can also adjust to life with COVID-19 by focusing on how you interact with others. Many people are concerned about the recent changes, so try practicing patience if someone seems short or a little distracted. Ask them how they are doing and if there is any way you can help them from afar.

Additionally, avoid passing any judgment when out in public, whether you hear someone cough or notice an individual not wearing a mask. Everyone is adjusting to this pandemic differently. Do what you can to keep yourself safe.

When to Seek Counseling

If practicing the above methods doesn’t help you adjust to the new way of living, consider talking with a professional about your feelings. Counseling can teach you additional coping methods like how to think outside of the box in terms of COVID-19 recommendations or how you can be more flexible in your day-to-day activities. A counselor can work with you to make small adjustments to the way you think, allowing you to embrace these changes more readily.

If you need help learning how to live with COVID-19, reach out to Colleen Torrence, MEd, LPC Inc., in Juneau, AK. With more than 20 years of experience providing counseling to others, Colleen offers coping tips and methods to help you face mood disorders, past trauma, depression, and anxiety. To learn more about her services, visit her website or call (907) 789-9212.