CityView Magazine

Cit yV iewN C.co m | 33 Technology has made it easy to maintain some semblance of connection with other people during these times of social distancing restrictions. "I mentioned to my son, who's 19, can you imagine if we were going through this without technology?" Taylor said. "We have the ability to reach out in other ways. To find an online exercise class, watch a Broadway show, work on learning another language, read some good books. ere are things that in our busy lives we've never had time for before. We can make lemonade out of lemons." But technology also means that we can find ourselves bombarded with news that adds to our stress. Taylor advises setting limits on just how much of the news cycle we watch. "It is true there is much we don't have control over, but ultimately we have to place our focus on what we can control," she said. "People will turn on the TV and watch the same stories over and over. You need to turn that off. "When I'm sitting at work and a notification will come on my phone, I ask myself whether it's something I can do anything about," she said. "Is this information something to help me? Make me feel better? If the answer to both is no, then I make efforts not to put my focus on that." Most importantly, if you can't seem to cope with feelings of stress, depression or anxiety, or if you find yourself relying on alcohol or other substances, call for help. "If you get to the point that you're not sleeping, can't eat, or are physically or verbally abusive, it's a strength to be able to reach out," she said. "Even if you've never done any of those things before. ere's no shame in asking for help. Even in normal times, there's no shame in asking for help." SPECIAL OFFER 12 issues delivered to your door PLUS the limited edition Steeples of Fayetteville poster ONLY $30 Order online at www.city viewnc.com Order by phone call 910-423-6500

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