Be Kind To Yourself: Don’t Let the “COVID 15” add to your stress
Be Kind To Yourself: Don’t Let the “COVID 15” add to your stress
By James E. “Jed” Foster, Jr., MA, LMFT
Check out this article from the New York Times. It’s a great read and echoes a sentiment heard in my sessions for both weight management and stress/anxiety treatment: give yourself permission to be human.
With global anxiety and other mental health concerns skyrocketing in response to the coronavirus outbreak, it isn’t surprising that people have put on some extra weight. From gym closures, to ordering out, to shopping like doomsday preppers avoiding multiple trips to the store; there are a multitude of reasons we may have slipped a little in our commitment to better overall health. The easiest one to point to, of course, is that we reach for what’s comfortable in times of crisis. We look for some instant gratification, the easy route, and what comes naturally when we’ve got our backs to the wall. And you know what? That’s okay. As long as we don’t completely “throw in the towel,” it doesn’t have to be a major undertaking to get back in your pre-quarantine shape. It may just take a little more heightened awareness when it comes to how much and how often you’re eating.
But first, be kind to yourself. Give yourself a little break and some compassion for the fact that you’re entering the 6th month of something that we’ve never faced before. Our family life, our work life…our very freedoms have been forced to adjust on an hourly, daily, weekly, and monthly basis. You may still be wondering if your kids are going to school…and it’s mid-August. As humans, we’re resistant to change. We like to know that everything and everyone is in its predictable place so that we can breathe easy. Well, COVID-19 has turned that notion on its head; but it doesn’t mean we can’t find some room to take a deep breath and give ourselves the credit we deserve for the things we’re doing right. Don’t beat yourself up, it will only add to your anxiety and stress. Instead, take a moment to focus away from the feelings of shame and guilt and lean into some gratitude and pride for the successes you’re undoubtedly having on a daily basis. Look for them. They’re there.
If you and someone you know needs help to achieve their wellness goals, learn more about the comprehensive weight management program we have to offer. The team includes a registered dietitian, physical therapist/fitness consultant, behavioral coach/counselor, and nurse practitioner. Frequently, services are covered by health insurance – just call and we would be happy to figure out what your coverage is! Learn more at compgihealth.com or call 224.407.4400.
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