Quarantining during this pandemic can lead to anxiety, depression, and other issues. 13 News Anchor Andrea Morehead continues her series on defining the word "crisis" and how "The Comeback" is sometimes sweeter than this setback we're all living through. In this edition, we look at the letter "I" and how we all can address isolation.
Last week, we discovered that the "c" in crisis stands for care -- caring for ourselves while "r" in the word crisis stands for "respect for self and others."
This week, we're tackling the letter "i" as we search for ways to set the stage for "The Comeback" during this uncertain time.
INDIANAPOLIS (WTHR) — From Whitney Driver riding her bike with her 10-month-old son to Michael Hogg who reads the Bible, it’s important to do a daily self-check in to know how you’re really feeling during this isolation period and to do things that make you happy.
Licensed Therapist and Social Worker NaKaisha Tolbert-Banks said it's important to share your feelings.
“I would always say to a loved one — and that could be a trusted friend or family member, a coworker — 'I’m feeling kind of down,'" she said.
Tolbert-Banks said then it's important to check in with some kind of medical provider whether it’s a primary care physician, a mental health provider or someone who has that professional insight who can navigate you through what you’re actually feeling.
Morehead posted on social media asking others what they do to make sure they're taking care of themselves.
Megan Stoner on Twitter agreed that tele-therapy is a good idea along with self-care.
For Lisa Peck, clearing your mind and de-stressing starts by taking a walk outside. Peck recently went to Fort Benjamin Harrison State Park.
And of course, it's important to socialize and stay connected.
Rita Eads is doing more YouTube yoga these days to stay healthy and connected.
But if you're not into yoga or much of the workout-type, you can take after Marty Keating, who reads books via video to his grandkids. They live in Florida.
13News Reporter Steve Jefferson held a virtual birthday party with a DJ that included friends from across the country.
“Now that they’re under the stay at home order we have so much more time to connect as a family. I have more time to do the things around the house that I needed to do, home repairs, cooking meals, and recipes. Just sitting down and enjoying family time together," Tolbert-Banks said.
Coach Suzette suggests we focus on each moment at a time.
Rosaleen Crowley is doing so by writing poetry on her thoughts and feelings. One of her poems is called "Cruel Virus."
The poem ends with a reminder for all of us: “... small things in life will lead to big appreciation. Life itself is precious, and we must love and be loved, the world has spoken.”
If you or someone you know needs help contact:
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (1.800.273.8255)
Visit: www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org
Or text the Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
To read the other related stories: www.wthr.com/thecomeback or to reach NaKaisha Tolbert-Banks, email info.duoservices@gmail.com