Are you feeling stressed or anxious? COVID-19 has many of us on edge these days, but you can take steps to manage your emotions and improve your mood -- even in the age of social distancing.

"If we focus on what we can control and do things that are good for our health and the health of those around us, we have an opportunity to grow and even thrive during these unique times," says Mark Flanagan, LMSW, MPH, MA, a Piedmont outpatient oncology social worker. 

Here are some tips from our archives on how to reduce stress and anxiety at home. 

Get moving

• Put the fun back in fitness with tips for a more enjoyable workout.
• Try a low-impact yoga workout for big health benefits. 

Stay mindful and in the moment

• Take a sacred pause with a mini meditation.
• Or, complete a full-length session and focus on mindfulness. 

Eat well

• Adopt some healthy new habits on your lunch break.
• Add good-mood foods to your next grocery list. 

Keep in touch with loved ones

• Stay (virtually) close even while you practice social distancing. 
• Learn your love language to help decide what you need from those around you. 

Rest when you need it 

1. Check out our tips for getting a better night's sleep. 
2. Use meditation as a tool for falling asleep. 

Practice self-care

• Take time for self-care activities like journaling or spending time in nature. 
• Remember to have fun and find joy at home.

If you've been experiencing prolonged depression, suicidal ideation, or symptoms like loss of appetite and lack of interest in loved ones, you should seek medical attention. 

If you are thinking about suicide, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (8255).