You or those around you may feel overwhelmed, anxious, discouraged, or stressed as we continue practicing social distancing and have disruptions both at work and home due to the ongoing pandemic. Below are some resources provided by BYU that may be helpful in caring for your mental health.
Paced Breathing Exercises are one of the best ways to calm yourself in a stressful situation. By taking a little time each day to practice deep breathing you are training your body to initiate the relaxation response of your parasympathetic nervous system.
Relaxation Recordings are another great way to initiate the relaxation response to help you reclaim inner calm when feeling stressed. You may want to try a few different types of relaxation recordings to see which types work best for you. By regularly doing a relaxation practice you are strengthening your body’s ability to respond calmly to stressful situations.
Stress Management Worksheet is a tool to help you work through strategies for managing and/or mitigating long-term stressors. It shows you three different areas where you might be able to take control of your situation so that is has less power over you.
WellTrack Boost Mental Health Management App is a widely-used mental health app that uses self-help videos and other tools to help you manage depression, anxiety, stress, monitor your mood, assess your mental health, and connect with campus resources. Active BYU faculty, staff, and students can create a account with WellTrack Boost for free. After downloading the app, create an account using your BYU email address (netID@byu.edu). For questions, email klint_hobbs@byu.edu.
The Employee Assistance Program offers time with a qualified expert who can help with emotional and mental health needs ranging from feeling overwhelmed to anxiety, stress, depression, grief, loss, balancing work and life, and more. Help is available 24/7 - 365 days of the year for all employees (who get at least 12 hours in a pay period within the last 31 days) and for anyone in their current household. This service allows for up to 3 video or phone sessions per issue per year. Here is a brochure with more information. To get started contact 1-844-280-9629 or click here.