“Take care of yourself” is a phrase we hear and say a lot these days. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic and the importance of social distancing, we are typically saying that phrase over the phone, during a zoom call, via text or on social media—not so much in person anymore. Self care can be hard to manage at the best of times, so what does it mean now that our world has been turned upside down?

Our health and wellbeing has many facets, both physical and mental. Since our focus here at Hunt Regional Medical Partners tends to be on your physical wellbeing, we’ll start there.

Protect yourself from COVID-19

Wash your hands. Wash your hands. Wash your hands. If you are not sure how to do this properly, watch this video. Follow social distancing rules, wear a face mask, and keep surfaces in your home clean. These are just a few of the things you can do; learn more about how to prevent getting sick.

If you do feel sick, the CDC’s self-checker can help you learn about the symptoms of COVID-19 and help decide whether you should get tested. When in doubt call our office, and we can help you do what’s best for you. If you are really sick, get medical care immediately by calling 911.

Don’t Ignore Other Illnesses

It may seem like the only illness anyone is caring for is COVID-19, but that is not true. Your regular care and treatment for existing conditions is also vitally important right now. Make sure you have the medications you need, and that you follow up with your physician to help keep you healthy and manage symptoms. Contact us and find out the best way to do that.

Don’t forget, even during a pandemic, people still have strokes, heart attacks, and other emergencies, and these can have more serious consequences. If you get hurt or start feeling the signs and symptoms of a stroke or heart attack get help right away. Contact your doctor if you are not sure if you are at risk for problems like these.

Take Care of Yourself Mentally

Dealing with an outbreak or pandemic is mentally taxing. Add to that the stresses of job loss, social distancing, and other social changes, and people are at higher risk of depression and anxiety. Make sure to reach out to friends and family for the social support you need. Even if you can’t be physically together, you can connect via any number of digital platforms or even just pick up the phone.

Remember, your community needs you just as much as you need them. Your doctor can also help. Call our office and make an appointment if you have concerns about your mental health.

If you, or someone you care about, are feeling overwhelmed with emotions like sadness, depression, or anxiety, or if you feel like you want to harm yourself or others

The CDC has more resources to help you learn how to cope with the stress of the pandemic.

If you have any questions about your health during this challenging time, your team at Hunt Regional Medical Partners is here for you. Please give us a call to discuss any concerns you have.