LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — Dramatic actions are being taken across the country to prevent the spread of COVID-19. As our daily lives start to change, fear and anxiety can sometimes take hold.
Health officials say the best thing we can do to keep ourselves and others around us healthy is to live in isolation for a while, but psychology experts say some will make decisions they normally wouldn't because of fears they'll have to stay indoors for an extended period of time. For example: nearly every grocery store in town as had their shelves cleared.
"I think that's just some way or one way that individuals are taking control of their life," said Dr. David Gennis, Psy.D. LMFT.
Dr. Gennis says it's important to try to regulate our emotions. We can start by staying informed.
"It's really important to inform ourselves with facts versus getting caught up in the paranoia, if you will, of the uncertainty or the unknown as it relates to the coronavirus," Dr. Gennis added.
A little self-care can go a long way, Dr. Gennis said. That starts with something as simple as taking a deep breath.
"Taking a deep breath in through the nose, out through the mouth several times can be so calming and balancing," Dr. Gennis said. "If we're really living our life today in fear, that's going to create toxic stress in our body. It's not going to make us feel like ourselves."
Third, Dr. Gennis suggests being grateful for what we do have.
"When we wake up in the morning, it's another day we can be thankful for," Dr. Gennis added.
Health experts also suggest getting enough sleep, monitoring your food and alcohol intake, and keeping in touch with loved ones.
