photo-of-Haley Feeling stressed and overwhelmed? Not seeing a light at the end of this COVID-19 tunnel? You are NOT alone. Anxiety and depression has increased tremendously during this pandemic. Our providers see patients on a daily basis struggling in isolation of quarantine, patients trying to survive working at home while juggling childcare, patients losing their jobs, and patients in desperation of not being able to spend time with friends and family. This pandemic has not been easy on anyone’s mental health.

While researchers work tirelessly to find a vaccine for COVID-19, our job at FPC is to enhance and maintain our patient’s mental health. We want everyone to find joy and quality of life while staying safe.

Get outside! In keeping your distance from others, get outside and catch some Vitamin D while doing something you enjoy! Whether it’s hiking stone mountain or floating the river, continuing activities that make you happy can enhance your mood and release good endorphins. Vitamin D increases melatonin levels, which in turn helps the body and mind relax.

Exercise! Make exercise part of your routine and make it fun. You can do this with friends at a distance or virtually with others. Exercise will decrease anxiety levels and help your quality of sleep.

Counseling! Studies have shown that getting in with a talk therapist or counselor helps quality of life, mental health, and can decrease anxiety as much as or more than medication. Ask your FPC provider about their counseling or therapist recommendations at your next visit! For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact Family Practice Center. And follow us on Facebook and Twitter for more updates and news.