Raise your hand if you have anxiety and sometimes just want to burrow under the covers.

From acute anxiety (which can be good, and makes us slow down when driving in bad weather) to chronic anxiety — the fear of what “might” happen — anxiety is everywhere. You’re likely feeling extra anxious with all the uncertainty during the coronavirus pandemic. That’s normal and here are some ways you can cope recommended by the CDC.

Triggers can also arise in our family. Some behaviors are positive and make us want to help each other. Other hot buttons can be destructive, especially when we have differing opinions and goals. There are even theories of epigenetics, biologic memory of trauma from our ancestors.

The book Anxious for Answers by Ilene Cohen teaches us how to manage our feelings and shows us how to get comfortable with being uncomfortable.

A short “Therapy in a Nutshell” from Emma McAdam, a Licensed Therapist, on YouTube also offers up reassurance in Catastrophizing: How to stop making yourself depressed and anxious.

You can also check out these tips from our partners at Mindfully Empowered.

Make it Lit!

Writing Prompt: What was your very first worry when you were a child? How did you cope then? What worries are you experiencing now? How are you currently coping?