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Tips for Managing Stress and Anxiety in the Era of COVID-19 From Your Library

About Blog Post Apr 20, 2020 by Pressroom
According to a recent poll from the American Psychiatric Association, almost 50 percent of Americans are experiencing some form of anxiety due to the COVID-19 crisis. If you fall into this category, you are not alone. While you are being safe at home, your Somerset County Library System of New Jersey (SCLSNJ) librarians are right there with you and for you, even when it comes to coping with anxiety.  “I've always been an anxious person - for as long as I can remember,” said Catherine DeBerry, adult services supervisor. “Because of that I have investigated a lot of tools over the years to cope. You name it, I've tried it: meditating, mindfulness, exercising, a worry journal, and therapy - just to name a few.” DeBerry continued “I can hazard a guess that most of us are experiencing some feelings of anxiety now. And you would think that someone who has experienced moments of extreme anxiety over the years would have all the tools she needs at her disposal during these very tense times. But even I feel unprepared for the onslaught of anxiety that comes from reading today's headlines while living through a pandemic. So, what does a librarian do when she needs information? She turns to the library.”   Discover digital reads recommended by DeBerry that you can access at home through SCLSNJ’s e-book and e-audiobooks resource Overdrive: If time is of the essence and/or you don’t have time to get through a book, don’t worry, discover some quick anxiety-reducing tips recommended by The University of Virginia's School of Medicine: Be Kind to Yourself. DeBerry suggests ignoring those social media posts about productivity and scheduling time to do absolutely nothing at least once a week. Make breathing your best friend. DeBerry recommends using a breathing technique to calm anxiety, a racing heart or nervous jitters by breathing in for a count of four, holding for a count of three, and breathing out for a count of five as many times as needed throughout the day. Practice mindfulness. DeBerry advises learning to conquer the “what ifs” and focusing on the present. “Lastly, don't hesitate to turn to your Library if you need more information,” said DeBerry. “Remember, we are here for you while we all practice the best ways to #BeSafeAtHome.” In addition to exploring the collection and these tips for stress management, the Library System recently introduced Gale Presents: Udemy, an online learning platform, to the virtual collection of resources. “We encourage you to delve into Gale Presents: Udemy and #BeSafeAtHome,” said Yvonne Selander, collection development manager. “Beyond the professional development courses available are a range of personal development opportunities, including stress management. Some of the topics within stress management include anxiety management, meditation, and resilience. Three subjects many of us may feel a need to explore right now.” Look for more on this topic and related topics Mondays on SCLSNJ’s book blog.
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