It contains practical stress management techniques for the health care professionals in special reference to the COVID-19 pandemic

1. Stress management for
medical officers during
COVID-19 pandemic
Dr. Narendra nath Samantaray
Narendra.samantaray@gmail.com

2. Mind during COVID-19
being at the frontline
“Coping Statements”
I am stressed, frustrated &
agitated. It’s not right to feel
this way
It’s quite reasonable to feel this way
in such abnormal situations
This is a sign of personal
weakness
Is anyone immune to stress?
Am I lone person to experience?
This stress is no indication of
personal weakness.
My actions, not my negative
feeling, will decide what I am

3. Mind during COVID-
19 being at the
frontline
“Coping Statements”
I am and will not be
able to cope with this
stress.
Have I not faced stress situations in
the past?
I will remember my past or recently
learned helpful coping strategies, like;
I will ensure;
a regular healthy diet
adequate sleep and opportune short
breaks during working hours
talk to my colleagues
connect digitally with family members
journal writing

4. Role-reversal
-If someone goes through the
same negative feeling, then what
would I advise them?
-If any of my family members go
through the same, then what
would I recommend them?
-Then why this double standard
for myself?

5. Mind during COVID-19 being
at the frontline
“Coping Statements”
It’s ok if I miss some regular
exercise and other daily
activities now.
No, missing this will create
more problems. I will
continue/initiate doing regular
exercise, yoga, or meditation as
feasible.
Continuing these will regain my
sense of control and purpose. I
have to take care of myself.

6. Mind during COVID 19 being
at the frontline
“Coping Statements”
My family members are scared.
Yes, they are, but I can digitally
connect them in some intervals
and can share my well being.
It will help them and me to
relax.

7. Mind during COVID 19
being at the frontline
“Coping Statements”
If something happens to me
how my family would
manage?
In the first place, am I not
overestimating the negatives?
In the worst possible scenario,
what’s the mortality and recovery
rate?
Am I underestimating my and
their ability to cope?
I am taking all safety measures.
Let’s look at the evidence; we are
and will be likely getting required
support.

8. Mind during COVID-19
being at the frontline
“Coping Statements”
Oh! This news in WhatsApp
is scary?
Is it a reliable news?
In the past, isn’t such fake news
has been common?
Should I, really, believe and act
on it?
Should I allow my mind to be
cluttered with this?
I will limit such media intake.

9. Mind during COVID-19 being
at the frontline
“Coping Statements”
It’s ok if I sneak to some
cigarettes or a peg.
I know it’s an unhelpful strategy.

10. Mind during COVID-
19 being at the
frontline
“Coping Statements”
Can I avoid risk-laden
duty or make some pre-
text?
I am making a difference; my actions
have a lot of positive impact on others.
 It’s an incredible opportunity to
serve.
Can I tolerate the guilt feelings even
if I pull off this?
Can I tolerate the change in me as a
person, even if I pull off this?

11. Mindfulness
Accept (right now I am having
this thought)
Observe (mentally verbalize the
thoughts, don’t get judgmental)
Ask; what else is coming to my
mind?

12. One thingat a
time

13. Roleofsupervisors/
seniorsforensuring
mentalhealthcare
ofotherstaff
 Avoid any false reassurance to junior
colleagues rather clarify frankly.
 Partner inexperienced workers with
experienced colleagues.
 Have contact numbers of appropriate
online referrals for mental health
support services.
 Ensure a flexible schedule, rotating
shifts, and frequent short brakes during
working hours for others.
 Even at a later stage, once the crisis is
over, supervisors to ensure supportive
care inviting reflective narrative of
learning from the demanding
experiences.