For all of us working in the motion picture industry, we’re used to dramatic plotlines and depictions of alternate universes. But nothing prepared us for the last few months. Sometimes, the truth is stranger than fiction.
The coronavirus pandemic has changed the way we all live to some extent, and many of us are struggling to cope with these changes. If you’re experiencing feelings of isolation, stress, and anxiety, or you’re not yourself right now, you’re not alone…
Limit Media Exposure
While you shouldn’t stick your head in the sand, listening to the news all day could make your anxiety worse, so limit media exposure as much as you can. Tuning in to the evening news every day is fine, but constantly scrolling your news feed for updates about the coronavirus isn’t healthy.
Pro-tip: We recommend downloading an app like Offtime, Flipd, or Freedom, which limits social media time. You can thank us later!
Switch Up Your Dietary Habits
Yes, there’s a link between mental health and nutrition. (It seems you really are what you eat.) Recent research suggests that eating probiotic foods lowers social anxiety, which sounds good to us. This means foods naturally rich in probiotics (or those with probiotics added to them), such as yogurt, pickles, sourdough bread, and some cheeses. Essentially, stuff you don’t normally find at a food truck on a movie set!
Don’t Forget About Exercise
It might be difficult to exercise at the moment, especially if you’re wary of going back to the gym. But there’s plenty of reasons to work out. Whether it’s jogging in the park, walking around the block, or practicing yoga at home, exercise releases feel-good hormones called endorphins, which “trigger a positive feeling in the body, similar to that of morphine.” Exercise can do wonders for your mental health and anxiety at this difficult time.
Talk to Someone
There’s no shame in admitting that you’re struggling right now. You’re not alone. Here at Will Rogers, we help motion picture industry veterans grapple with the psychological, social, and economic effects of the pandemic. We’ve helped veterans for decades, and we know the industry needs us more than ever before.
If you need someone to talk to (or know someone who does), our social service consultations provide a helping hand. No subject is off-limits, and we can help with the following:
- Eldercare guidance
- Education advice
- Supportive counseling
- Bereavement counseling
- Federal/state benefit guidance
Practice Mindfulness
If full-on meditation is not your thing, mindfulness could provide you with some peace of mind during these stressful times. It’s a relaxation technique where you pay attention to your thoughts and breathing., helping you focus and clear your mind. Practicing mindfulness every day could lower anxiety and help you cope with COVID.
Pro-tip: Check out mindfulness apps like Headspace and Calm.
If you’re struggling to cope with the pandemic, there’s help out there. Our social services provide confidential consultations at this time. Find out more here.