Law enforcement sees firsthand how stress has the ability to negatively affect people.
Are you playing your music too loud?
Did you clean up after your dog?
Did you block your neighbors’ driveway?
Are your kids touching things that don’t belong to them?
While you may not think these examples are a big deal, to someone with their nerves on edge tempers may flare, and you could easily become annoyed with your spouse, children or neighbors. If alcohol or drugs come into play, the problem can be exacerbated.
While we are all in tight quarters, you may be feeling a bit stir crazy. Do your best to be respectful of others – it may mitigate potential negative behaviors.
In a time where you may feel out of control, focus on what you can control. To make shelter-in-place more bearable for yourself and others, consider the following:
• Stimulate your mind. Access eBooks, eAudiobooks, music magazines and newspapers 24/7 at www.sclibrary.org Watch a children’s story on the Santa Clara City Library Facebook page
• Exercise. Run. Walk. Yoga. Aerobics. Bike. Circuit training. Jump rope. Stretch. Pilates. Hike. Whatever type of activity you choose to get moving, maintain (at least) six feet from other people
• Be creative. Pinterest, Facebook App, Google and YouTube may stimulate a craft idea or walk you through how to complete a project
• Sit in the sun. Take a break from work or homeschooling to sit in the sun for 10-15 minutes. You’ll be amazed at how good it feels!
• Tackle your “honey-do” list. Clean your garage. Organize your closet. Paint a room. Plant flowers or a garden. Organize your pantry. Empty your junk drawer. Mow the lawn.
• Practice self-care. If you aren’t taking good care of yourself, you won’t be able to take care of others. Maintain a routine, basic personal hygiene habits and take prescription medication as prescribed. A happier, more positive you will help foster the same feelings in others.
If you find yourself in a troubling situation, during this shelter-in-place, utilize community resources as needed:
• Disaster Distress Helpline, 800-985-5990
• Domestic Violence Crisis Line, 800-799-7233
• Emergency, 9-1-1
• National Alliance on Mental Illness, 800-950-6264 or text 741741
• National Suicide Prevention Hotline, 800-273-8255
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, 800-662-4357
• Veteran’s Crisis Line, 800-273-8255
For accurate local information, visit SantaClaraCA.gov/CoronavirusUpdates
