What happens when social institutions like schools and colleges, restaurants, gyms and churches close? We are home and isolated, impacting our mental health. Some groups suffer more than others. Calls to mental health hotlines are on the rise.

iGen and Millennials are being hit hard. Many have lost they jobs and have little financial fallback. The social distancing and isolation has exacerbated already high rates of depression among this age group (18-44). Loneliness and anxiety about the future are real concerns.  “Real” versus on-line friends are needed to provide the social support so important to good mental health. And then there is the stress over their parents’ health and trying to convince them to stay inside. They worry their parents will be infected.  To cope, many are using food and alcohol.

What helps?

• Stick to a routine just like you did when you were in your work office. Shower, get up at the same time and structure your day.
• Add exercise to your day. One good thing about working from home is that you can take frequent breaks and move. Add a daily walk during your lunch hour. Go outside into the sunshine to soak in some Vitamin D. It helps with stress.
• Focus on what you can control. Wash your hands, limit non-essential travel, stop touching your face, eat well and get sleep.
• Use this time to develop positive coping skills like biblical meditation, prayer, relaxation methods, humor, connection and support.
• Shift your focus to positive things. Stop the worry. Instead, concentrate on what might be good about this time, e.g., more self-awareness, developing better habits, etc.
• Make a gratitude list everyday. Doing this changes your brain for the better.
• Review your financials. It may be time to rethink how you have been spending your money.
• Deepen your social connections. Reach out to friends and have actual conversations; you know, face to face interactions over social platforms.
• Turn off the news if it creates anxiety.

If you need more professional help, don’t hesitate to use resources like Text the Crisis Text Line (741747) or  Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (1-800-662-4357), and The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-8255) are available.