In these times of uncertainty, the struggles and stress seem to consume us. Whether you lose a job, lose a loved one, or are struggling with anxiety about the world we are currently living in, you are not alone.
There are resources and strategies to help you stay financially and mentally healthy through this crazy time. It's important to stay motivated and remember that it's okay to ask for help, especially now!
Financial anxiety surrounds every corner. Whether you’ve lost your job or are just struggling to make ends meet, these feelings are certainly overwhelming. The best things you can do are to use the resources available to you and to prioritize your spending.
There are many programs you may be eligible for, such as; sick leave, disability, unemployment, or family medical leave. If you’re self-employed, you may be eligible for a small business loan to keep your business afloat. Don’t be afraid to use these resources! Check out this website to see what you’re eligible for in your state!
Governmental resources aren’t the only resources out there. Food banks and rental assistance are just two of many ways organizations are trying to help out in this time of need.
You may be the type of person who always pays bills on time, but remember to prioritize necessities. Take care of your basic needs first - shelter, utilities, food, and transportation.
Don’t just ignore your other bills - contact the companies and explain your situation. They may be able to assist you or offer you a payment plan. The best thing you can do is communicate with others. We’re all in this together.
Everyone reacts differently during stressful situations, and COVID-19 has taken this stress up a notch for everyone. Although this is understandable, there are still things you can do to take care of yourself to stay sane during this time of insanity.
Don’t forget to connect with others. Call, text, or video chat with your loved ones. Now is the perfect opportunity to reach out to those who you’ve been missing or wanting to get in contact with. There’s no better time than now, and it will instantly increase your overall mood.
Okay, this is a big one. What have you seen in the news other than COVID-19 related topics recently? Constantly hearing about the pandemic can be upsetting and scary! It's okay to take a break. When you call your friend or family member, just ask them for the highlights if you need to know!
Seriously - we hear this over and over. But, how you treat your body has a huge impact on your mental health! During this time more than ever, it’s easy to get out of sync and fall into a new “normal” such as consuming alcohol daily or staying up late! Although it’s easy to do, don’t let yourself fall into these bad habits. Work on keeping up with the following:
And remember, if you need help, you’re not alone. There are tons of resources available to you or a loved one going through a time of depression or severe anxiety. Don't be afraid to ask for help!