Life is Serving Stressors...

In these trying times of the COVID pandemic, civil unrest, political divisiveness, economic uncertainty, health worries, we've much to be stressed about. We're all in this together. No one is immune to the feelings of worry and sadness. We do, however, respond to stress differently and we all have different ways of dealing with stressful events.  
Trying to manage stress is infinitely better than avoiding issues as they arise, hiding from less than happy news, or creating more stress for others. 
Stay healthy by staying peaceful. 
Remember that stress increases for various reasons , 1) we expect something to happen that doesn't ,  2) we try to 'fix' things that we aren't skilled to fix, 3) we don't learn to accept and make peace with the things we cannot resolve on our own, and 4)we don't stay physically healthy.
How can we apply this to these times of COVID? 
1) Live day to day and follow the advice of the professionals. The virus is here and will be with us for awhile. We cannot expect nor rely on a magic cure, an effective vaccine overnight, or for it to be wished away. Listen to the medical professionals who are truthful in what we can expect.  
2) We can't make the virus go away, but we have lots in our own power to help stay safe...masks, hand washing, social distancing, limiting social contact in public places.
3) We can be angry that the virus is here, has taken a loved one, has closed our place of employment, has isolated us from our friends ...or we can accept that we have no choice but to live through this, stay positive, stay safe, keep others safe. Anger serves no purpose but to wear on emotions and result in being overwhelmed. 
4) Staying physically healthy is important to boosting your mental health as well. Get enough sleep, stay on a daily schedule for rest and exercise. Eat healthy foods. WALK! Walking on quiet side streets with a mask handy will increase endorphins and boost your spirit. It will also help you get a better nights rest. No gym involved...free. 

Practice looking for the positive and for solutions in each situation instead of dwelling on the negative.  Acknowledge that you are worthy of great self care and implement a few things that point you towards wellness. Above all, congratulate yourself for 'muddling through' so far...

Be well.