Mental Wellbeing During Long Stays at Home

Feeling anxious, irritable or low during a long stay at home is normal. Being stuck, worried and without your routine is hard on anyone.

Things that help

From SAMHSA, in my own words:

• Keep a routine. Regular meals and sleep times. Plan something small to look forward to.
• Talk to people. Call, text or sit with someone you trust. Let children say how they feel.
• Limit the news. Check for what you need at set times, then put it away.
• Move your body. A walk if safe, stretching, or slow breathing.
• Protect sleep. Avoid caffeine and screens before bed. Write down what is on your mind.
• Avoid alcohol and drugs as a way to cope.
• Hold off big decisions until things settle.
• Be with animals or get outside when it is safe. Smoke or storms may limit this, and that is frustrating too.

With children

Keep routines where you can. Give them jobs. Answer questions simply and honestly. Keep books, games and art supplies in your kit.

Get help

Reach out if distress gets hard to manage or doesn’t ease, or if you notice ongoing depression, anxiety or more drinking or drug use.

In immediate danger: call 911.

United States

• 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: call or text 988
• Disaster Distress Helpline: call or text 1-800-985-5990

Canada

• 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline: call or text 9-8-8
• Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868, or text CONNECT to 686868
• Hope for Wellness (First Nations, Inuit and Métis): 1-855-242-3310