As we enter into the fifth week of physical distancing and self-isolation, more and more people are finding themselves getting increasingly anxious. St. Anthony Psychiatrist, Dr. Amy Canuso, says it is perfectly normal to feel some anxiety in these circumstances.
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She says people are feeling shut in and antsy. They may suffer from muscle tension, irritability, trouble sleeping and can’t find ways to soothe the unrest.
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Canuso wants people to understand how to recognize some of the typical symptoms of this heightened sense of anxiety.
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When it comes to helping those closest to you manage these feelings of anxiety, the one thing you shouldn’t do is say “don’t worry.” Instead help them focus on ways to alleviate it. Try not to become overwhelmed by news about COVID-19 and stick to trusted authorities for updates. Get structure in your day and try to reframe the way you are thinking about your situation. For instance, Canuso says, instead of saying “I am stuck at home,” rephrase it to “I get to stay at home and enjoy some of my favorite activities here.” Canuso adds she has concerns about some who may be electing to self-soothe with alcohol.
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She is not saying people need to give up their alcohol completely, but they need to recognize how much they are consuming. She recommends men having no more than two to three drinks of alcohol per day and women no more than one to two. And for everyone, consumption should not exceed six drinks per week. When it comes to the stress being placed on familial relationships, alcohol can have the opposite of the desired effect. Canuso says other ways to deal with feelings that are getting out of control need to be mapped out.
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Canuso also recommends recognizing that the temperature or anger is rising and stopping it before it gets out of control. Rehearsing this scenario when everyone is calm makes it easier to carry out when necessary. Canuso also discusses ways people can reach out for help through the telehealth services available by calling St. Anthony. She also talks about ways people can improve their mental health in the coming days by simply getting outside and enjoying all of the benefits that sunshine and good weather can bring. A link to Dr. Canuso’s full interview can be found below.
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Link to full interview with Dr. Amy Canuso: https://www.1380kcim.com/episode/kcim-interview-dr-amy-canuso-st-anthony-psychiatrist-2/