We know this is a stressful time. Review these important tips from the Santa Barbara County Public Health Department on how to take care of your mental health during this crisis.
- Practicing mindfulness and relaxation exercises
- Stay connected by phone and electronically
- Keep current connections strong
- Stay informed through reliable sources
- Limit your screen time
- Eat healthy and drink plenty of water
- Call elderly and house-bound friends and neighbors to see how they are feeling. Bring them meals and special treats, being mindful of their vulnerability and susceptibility.
- Play board games with your kids
- Read to your children and have them read to you
- Take on a home project, paint that wall that you have been thinking about
- Work in the garden
- Have push-up contests or do yoga together
- Make special meals and involve the whole family, eat healthy!
- Get outside – go for walks, runs, and hikes (maintain social distancing)
We are wired to be socially connected. Doing so safely requires diligence and creativity. Keeping a positive and informed perspective that we will get through this, together, is critical to reducing the emotional impacts and continuing to create resiliency.
City of Goleta Mayor Paula Perotte said, “It’s important that we stay connected and support one another. Call and check on people who are on your mind to let them know you are thinking of them. We are fortunate to live in a tight-knit community that looks out for each other.”
If you or someone you know needs help, contact the Santa Barbara County Community Wellness Team at https://sbccwt.org/ or (805) 364-2750. View their flyer here.