Mental Health and Wellness During Crisis

We understand that the challenges, both long- and short-term, of the current health crisis can lead to significant stress and anxiety.  Virginia's statewide cultural organizations have teamed up to provide these resources to our members and constituents. As you navigate through this unprecedented time, make sure to leave time for yourself, to reduce stress where you can, and give yourself permission to rest.  When you need a break, come here to review articles, get tips on dealing with stress, and find suggestions for self-care. In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, we want to help you stay healthy.

Articles and Tips

Burnout in the Digital Age: How to Avoid Workplace Stress

Read an overview of mental health challenges from the Centers for Disease Control.

Learn more about mental health and social distancing, from the American Psychiatric Association.

Virginia Community Response Network is offering free counseling to essential workers, first responders, teachers, healthcare workers, and others. 

Exercises

Try this trauma-sensitive yoga routine, suggested by the National Alliance on Mental Illness.

Some anxiety-reducing exercises, from Healthline.com.

Some meditation tips for artists, from Artwork Archive.

Use this coping calendar from actionforhappiness.org.

Take some time to learn new skills, or take courses online during this time--keep your mind active and engaged! 

• https://www.edx.org/
  Gain new skills, advance your career, or learn something just for fun. EdX is a nonprofit offering 1900+ courses from the world’s best institutions including Harvard, MIT, Microsoft, and more.
  
  
• https://www.khanacademy.org/
  Created by experts, Khan Academy’s library of trusted, standards-aligned practice and lessons covers math, grammar, science, history, and more. It’s all free for learners and teachers.