As the coronavirus pandemic presses on and cases spike around the country, we continue to urge our patients to keep themselves and their families safe by limiting indoor gatherings and minimizing any unnecessary travel, particularly by public transportation and air flight. Continue to practice good preventative technique by wearing masks when appropriate, and being mindful to frequently wash your hands and social distance. We’ve heard from many of you over the last several months, and have done our best to address your individual concerns with regards to Covid-19. A common theme we have all felt from the pandemic is the weight that necessary public health restrictions have had on our mental and emotional health. We are social beings by nature, and the psychological impact of having limitations for when and how we can interact with our friends and loved ones cannot be underestimated. That being said, it is important to remain diligent, especially as we head into the holiday season. We should continue to follow the recommendations put forth by the CDC, as these measures have proven effective at controlling the virus, exemplified by low incident rates in states and cities that have had a prompt and unified response. As we continue our work to stay safe and virus-free, what can we do to support our emotional and mental well-being?

Here are seven tips from the Nursing Team:

1. Create and maintain a routine. This will help to provide a sense of normalcy and provide structure to the day.

2. Use technology - Smartphones and video conferencing, while not an ideal replacement for in-person socializing, can still be an excellent substitute.

3. Stay active! Exercise and physical activity do wonders for mental health.

4. Use this opportunity to engage and learn something new. Pick up a new book, start an online class, take up a new hobby, the information age provides many accessible options from home.

5. Game nights with your family, a classic way to have fun and connect at home.

6. Pandemic restrictions don’t mean you need to completely quarantine yourself indoors. Get outside for fresh air! Sunlight is our main natural source of vitamin D, but with winter coming it is never a bad idea to supplement.

7. Mindfulness and meditation can be a phenomenal cure for stress. We cannot always change the environment around us, but we are always in control of our response and outlook upon it. There are lots of apps available via your PC/Tablet/Smartphone to help guide you in this practice.

Remember, this too shall pass! But in the meantime, stay safe and be kind to yourself and those around you. And as always, your nursing team is readily available by phone to help guide you with your MS care during this challenging time. Wishing you and yours a healthy and safe holiday season!