What can you do to deal with depression and anxiety during the COVID age? Dr. Gregory Jantz, founder of The Center — A Place of HOPE and author of 40 books on mental health has some ideas for how to help you feel comforted and calm:

First, honor your grief. There’s no benefit in not accepting yourself and your emotions for what they are. Depression is one of the most common phases of loss. The losses that accompany the pandemic are many.

Month’s of ongoing confinement and/or isolation from others combined with stress and worry takes a toll on people. Reports of domestic disturbances and mental health problems are on the rise.

Why honor grief then? Why acknowledge the confusion and upset?

Because grief is a process. And eventually, we do come through hard times. And if we have healthy tools for achieving emotional balance, we grow and change for the better.

How Can We Overcome Pandemic Depression and Fear?

Dr. Gregory suggests we try these ideas to rein in our thoughts and control what we can:

1. “Control influences on thought. Gregory encourages us to objectify our thoughts. More reality-based thinking can help alleviate irrationality, helplessness, sadness, and fear. 

2. Prioritize. This is not the time to get bogged down by the small stuff in life. Make a list of what matters, and work through it, one item at a time. delegate and ask for support where appropriate or necessary. Learn to let things go and slow down to help temper anxiety. 

3. Take Control of your physical & emotional health. Sleep, exercise, and nutrition are paramount. They pay dividends right now. 

4. Reset. It is difficult to re-record the tapes playing in our heads. depression and anxiety though can be overcome with two key approaches shared by Dr. Gregory.

• Talk to yourself. Reinforce the positive things you want. in your life. Notice where you tend to be negative and intentionally choose more positive self-talk and perspectives.
• Write your thoughts down. Journaling is a powerful way to introduce more positivity into your mental dialogue. 

Dr. Gregory adds too, that, if faith is in your life, do make time to meditate or pray, focus on our values, reach out, and support others. Find ways to be the best you. Now is also a great season for goals and becoming growth-minded.

Coronavirus is definitely changing us. Still, there is reason for hope and forward movement. Give yourself a chance to adjust and find joy again. Read more here: Overcoming Depression and Desperation in the Time of COVID-19