How to Cope with Stress During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Christy Billock is the Founding Program Director of the Entry-Level Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) program at KGI. This semester, she is teaching a Lifestyle Medicine course online. The class consists of students from the Postbac Premedical Certificate, Postbac Pre-PA Certificate, and master’s programs.

On April 3, ABC7 asked Billock for her tips on how to cope with stress during the COVID-19 pandemic. Here is a short clip from the interview:

 

Billock’s tips for preventive mental health during the COVID-19 crisis:

• Get intentional about how you spend your time: routine, healthy habits, balance, do some things that bring you joy
• Set boundaries: news, social media, conversations about pandemic
• Practice mindfulness (attentional training)
• Pay attention to the positive and practice gratitude and find the silver linings
• Go outside for a change of perspective
• Connect with others

You can also view one of Billock’s recent Wellness Workshops here:

 

Prior to KGI, Billock served as a Professor and Curriculum Coordinator of Occupational Therapy at West Coast University. She is a licensed occupational therapist with a clinical background in adult rehabilitation. She has a PhD in Occupational Science from the University of Southern California. She more than 20 years of teaching experience including preventive mental health, wellness, and behavioral neuroscience.

To learn more about KGI’s Entry-Level Occupational Therapy Doctorate program, visit kgi.edu/otd.