Michelle Obama is letting people know that they're not alone in these difficult times! On Sunday, she shared an Instagram post where she mentioned some coping strategies that help her, and suggested some ways that people can give back to their communities.
"These past few weeks have been scary and difficult for many of us," Obama began her post. "We just don’t have a road map for what we’re currently experiencing -- that in and of itself can bring up feelings of anxiety, loneliness, and fear. Not to mention the worry we feel about the health and safety of our parents, children, and loved ones and the financial security of so many families."
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Obama says life is "something we're figuring out together"
Obama went on to reassure people reading her post that they aren't the only ones feeling a little lost given the current circumstances of the world. "Whatever you’re going through right now, I want you to know you aren’t alone," she said. "Even as we practice social distancing, this new normal is something we are figuring out together".
She even talked about what helps her to cope when things seem a bit much. "I know when I’m feeling overwhelmed that picking up the phone and calling one of my girlfriends can work wonders," Obama shared. "I also know staying close to my community helps me to feel connected and strong".
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Obama offers self-care advice: "Be gentle with yourself"
Obama suggests a variety of ways that people can get involved with their communities right now through in her post, where she shared a series of images titled "A Few Ways To Show Up For Your Community In These Tough Times". With simple illustrations, some of the things Obama encourages are volunteering with food distribution programs, reading stories to kids, and generously tipping delivery people.
However, she also understands that it's completely normal to feel overwhelmed by things right now, and while it's important to give back to others, sometimes self-care is the best response to everything that's going on. "And don’t forget: It’s okay to take a breath, too," Obama finished her post by saying. "Be gentle with yourself. Log off when you need to, take a break if you can, and let others know when you’d like a little help".