Let’s face it—these are crazy times. I’m writing at home at this moment, because my library, McPherson Square, is currently closed. Schools have closed. Many businesses are closed, and those that remain open have been working to adapt. We have all been in a period of social distancing for over a month now. Everyone has been forced to change their daily routines. That can be stressful.

So, let’s talk about ways that we can take care of ourselves.

Why am I writing about self-care? I am not a healthcare professional, but I’m someone that practices self-care. I recently celebrated 6 years of sobriety. I’ve struggled with major depression my entire adult life. I’m currently in a good place in my life, and my self-care routines are a big part of that. However, this is not a substitute for professional care. If you think that professional care might be helpful, I encourage you to get professional help. I did. It helped me.

What I am going to do is write about things that have worked for me and things that I’ve seen work for other people. We are all different. So, these are suggestions and not one-size-fits-all solutions. I want you to find the things that work for you.

Like you, all of us at the Free Library are adapting to the new social norms. Obviously, I’m writing this post for adults, but the goal is family content. So, I’ll also be working on posts for children and teens. We are also going to figure out a way for you to give feedback, make requests, and ask questions.

Next up will be a post on self-monitoring. If you want to take care of yourself, the first step is figuring out where you are emotionally and physically.

Thanks for taking the time to read this. I hope you and your family are doing well. We can get through this.

Below are some ways that you can get help. Please get the help you need.

• For thoughts of suicide: National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is a United States-based suicide prevention network of 161 crisis centers that provides a 24/7, toll-free hotline available to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress.
  Phone: 1-800-273-8255
   
• For mental health issues: National Alliance of Mental Illness NAMI Philadelphia, an affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness, provides information and support to people with mental illness, their families, caregivers, and friends. All services are free.
  Phone: 267-687-4381
   
• For drug and substance abuse: National Drug Information Treatment and Referral Hotline has 24/7 information, support, treatment options, and referrals to local rehab centers for any drug or alcohol problem.
  Phone: 800-662-HELP (4357)

Last but certainly not least, here are some titles and resources from our catalog to help take care of mental, emotional, and physical health, as well as reduce stress.