Summary: Thanks for tuning in to the next episode of the Early Accountability Podcast! On this episode, Kimi continues the conversation we began last week by providing more practical tips for handling the uncertain times in our world right now, particularly regarding COVID-19. Perhaps you have even experienced drastic changes in your lifestyle, school, or work schedule just since last week because of how quickly the virus is evolving and spreading across the U.S. and the world. It is understandable that this turbulence could lead to anxiety, fear, and stress, but there are some simple ways to keep your head above water. 1. Don’t believe everything you hear – Monitor your consumption of television and social media during these times and try to find the balance of staying informed without getting overwhelmed. Read articles written by reputable sources rather than relying on what your friends are saying they have heard. 2. Social support doesn’t mean social isolation – Even in this time of social distancing and self-quarantine, we have so many technological tools at our fingertips that it is easier than ever to keep in touch with others. In fact, you likely find yourself with more time available to reach out and have those conversations, so be intentional about connecting with loved ones. 3. Take advantage of telehealth services and mental health hotlines – Just because you can’t physically go to your health provider’s office does not mean that you can’t get help for physical or mental health issues. Contact your doctor’s office to see what kind of telehealth services they provide and do not hesitate to reach out via mental health hotlines if you find yourself struggling with anxiety, depression, or excessive stress in the midst of this coronavirus crisis. We have provided specific resources below. Topics Covered in this Episode: • Keeping calm during uncertain times • Coronavirus • Fighting fear with facts • Mindfulness and staying grounded Links: • If you're going through some tough or confusing times, reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline '1-800-273-TALK (8255)' • Lifeline Crisis Chat http://www.contact-usa.org/chat.html • In the US text 741741 to speak with a Crisis Counselor at Crisis Text Line https://www.crisistextline.org/texting-in • IMAlive crisis support chat https://www.imalive.org Relevant Agencies: • National Institute on Mental Health (NIMH): https://www.nimh.nih.gov/index.shtml • Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): https://www.cdc.gov • Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMSHA): https://www.samhsa.gov • National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI) https://www.nami.org Relevant Articles: • NIMH article on Coping With Coronavirus: Managing Stress, Fear, and Anxiety: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/about/director/messages/2020/coping-with-coronavirus-managing-stress-fear-and-anxiety.shtml • The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has a webpage with information on dealing with fear, anxiety, and stress brought on by the coronavirus pandemic. • CDC information on Coping with a Disaster or Traumatic Event https://emergency.cdc.gov/coping/index.asp • NAMI Coronavirus Information and resources https://www.nami.org/getattachment/Press-Media/Press-Releases/2020/COVID-19-and-Mental-Illness-NAMI-Releases-Importan/COVID-19-Updated-Guide-1.pdf?lang=en-US Connect with Kimi: http://www.kimiwalker.com/ https://web.facebook.com/kimiwalker https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimiwalker https://www.youtube.com/user/KimiFitWell
