It is normal to feel anxious and stressed during this challenging time. The following is a list of suggested coping strategies we hope will help you get through the COVID-19 pandemic.
 

• Stay connected. Make it a point to stay connected with friends and family. Call or text your loved ones more often. Schedule virtual coffee dates, meals, or social time. Talk to your neighbor from your porch, yard, or window.
   
• Stay active. Go for walks or try a free exercise video online. Try taking up a new physical activity at home, like yoga, lifting, or jogging on a treadmill.
   
• Keep a schedule. Plan your day, even if each day is different. Develop a routine, plan when you will retire for the evening, wake up, shower, eat, work, relax and socialize. Schedules can help you feel productive and in control of your day.
   
• Take breaks from the news. Set limits on the amount of time you spend watching the news or reading the news on your phone or TV to avoid anxiety about COVID-19. Try watching a movie or talking to friends instead.
   
• Go outside if it is safe. Make it a point to go outside each day and get some fresh air while maintaining social distancing. If you do not feel comfortable going outside, then open your curtains or blinds so you can see the sun.
   
• Explore new activities in your free time. Take up a new hobby. Try arts and crafts, game night with your family, redecorate your room, or make a new recipe for dinner.
   
• Take one day at a time. It may feel more manageable to focus on what will happen tomorrow rather than worrying about how long this pandemic will go on.
   
• Think positively. Try to remind yourself that this period of social isolation will end and there may be some positive things that result from this experience. For example, staying isolated helps keep you and your loved ones safe. Maybe you are able to spend more time with family or catch up on a favorite TV show.
   
• Do something kind for somebody else. Reach out to your social network to see if anyone needs help during this time. Consider donating or volunteering with an organization that is helping hospital workers or other essential workers.
   
• Consider making an appointment with a Joslin Behavioral Health provider. If you are still feeling overwhelmed you may want to consider making a virtual appointment with a Joslin Behavioral Health Specialist.

To make an appointment with a Behavioral Health provider in the Pediatric, Adolescent, and Young Adult section call 617-732-2603 and in Adult Diabetes call 617-309-2594.