As the COVID-19 situation grows more complicated around the globe and here at home, it is important to recognize that a fraught moment like this can impact not just your physical but also your mental health. If you or your loved ones are feeling heightened stress and anxiety, there are things you can do for your mental wellbeing, even if the situation around you feels out of your control. We want you to know that you are not alone, so we have pulled together a few great resources that we have found helpful as the news weighs on us. 

 “The more we think about a fearful scenario, the more our body and nervous system will respond with physical symptoms of anxiety (such as increased heart rate, stress hormones, panic attacks). We can interrupt this process by stopping the whirlwind of our thoughts in their tracks.” - Psychotherapist/writer/speaker Anna Mathur’s blog post “Dealing with Coronavirus Anxiety.”

“Ask yourself if it’s the virus that scares you or is it the drastic changes, the uncontrollable and the uncertainty that scare you. Meanwhile, once we stay informed and follow what the experts tell us, our best ally is to find the opportunity in the difficulty, the upside to a downside situation beyond our control. And make the best of an inevitable situation one step at a time just as the “Hanxes” are doing, which will contribute to your well-being and your being well.” - Psychotherapist and best-selling author Bryan Robinson’s Forbes article "The Psychology Of Uncertainty: How To Cope With COVID-19 Anxiety”

“Young people look to adults for cues about how nervous or relaxed they should be when encountering something new…Modeling a level-headed response is the best way to keep anxiety from getting the better of our teenagers as we all find our way through this new and uncertain challenge.” - Psychologist and best-selling author Lisa Damour’s New York Times article "5 Ways to Help Teens Manage Anxiety About the Coronavirus.”

If you feel you need more support, Inkblot counsellors are available as early as today. There is no need to leave the comfort and safety of your home in order to speak to someone and get the help you deserve in this difficult time. We will match you with a list of effective, licensed practitioners based on your needs and preferences and you can select the counsellor who is the best fit for you. All sessions are completely secure and confidential.

A conversation with the right practitioner can make a world of difference. Most of our users report feeling better after just their first appointment—which is totally free for you, or for anyone else you know who might be struggling. 

None of us are alone in this, so please reach out should you need assistance or have questions. The Inkblot team is here to help.