Stress-busting tips
Are you feeling stressed, or are you an essential worker who has stayed on the front lines during the COVID-19 pandemic? Maybe you drive a bus, stock a warehouse, clerk in a grocery store, or perform another service that we all need. Now more than ever, it's clear how much we all rely on your work.
But there's no denying staying on the job these days can be stressful. You may have a lot on your mind when you head to work, and that anxiety can lead to things like anger, fatigue, sadness, and trouble sleeping or concentrating.
If you're feeling the pressure, it's important to make your mental health a priority. Here are some tips that may help you cope:
Talk to your team. Talk with your supervisor and co-workers about your stress and how your work is going. These are challenging times. It's important to acknowledge what you're feeling.
Speak up about safety concerns. Are you getting the protective equipment you need? Do you have an idea that could help make work less stressful and safer? If so, share it with your manager. Working toward solutions can help you feel less anxious.
Find a healthy outlet. Try not to consume too much pandemic news on your time off&mdash;or turn to alcohol or drugs to cope with stress. Instead, make room for activities that bring you joy and relaxation, like reading, working on a hobby, or spending time in nature.
Call on your support system. Reach out to family members or friends when you feel like talking. Chances are, they're more than willing to provide a virtual shoulder to lean on.
Keep up healthy habits. It's easy to let these slide in stressful times. But do your best to get plenty of exercise, healthy food, and rest. Keep washing your hands and following other safety measures. Focusing on things you can change, like your wellness routine, may give you a greater sense of control.
Seek out mental health help. Does your workplace offer mental health resources, such as counseling services? If so, find out how to use them. You can also talk to your doctor if you're feeling too much stress. Or check out resources from your state or local health department.
Get more COVID-19 support 

<a href="https://www.azblue.com/coronavirus" target="_blank">Visit our website</a> to find the latest Blue Cross&reg; Blue Shield&reg; of Arizona COVID-19 support and resources. 
We also invite you to explore <a href="https://www.azblue.com/coronavirus" target="_blank">Mobilize AZ</a>&nbsp;&mdash; the online home of our public health initiative &mdash; where we bring together resources, information, and materials on mental health, substance use, and more. Explore our <a href="https://www.mobilizeaz.com/mental-health/mind-fitness/" target="_blank">mind fitness and mood-boosting tips</a>. 
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Sources: American Heart Association; American Psychiatric Association; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Are you feeling stressed about the pandemic? 

Stress-busting tips
Are you feeling stressed, or are you an essential worker who has stayed on the front lines during the COVID-19 pandemic? Maybe you drive a bus, stock a warehouse, clerk in a grocery store, or perform another service that we all need. Now more than ever, it's clear how much we all rely on your work.