Central Coast behavioral wellness specialists provide ways to combat anxiety as Omicron variant rises

CENTRAL COAST, Calif.– As the Omicron variant continues to spread nationwide, it's causing some anxiety across the Central Coast. Local behavioral wellness specialists provide tips on how to manage the uneasy feeling.

Both Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties said this feeling is common.

"I can't say how common the feeling is," said Santa Barbara County Behavioral Wellness' Chief Quality Care and Strategy Officer Suzanne Grimmesey. "Our minds are doing their jobs to protect us from things that could be harmful."

One way to ease the anxiety is to focus on things you can control.

"Take really good care of yourself right now," said Grimmesey. "Go outdoors, eat well, meditate, try to stay grounded."

San Luis Obispo County Behavioral Wellness' Caroline Schmidt said taking care of yourself is also important.

“Going on frequent walks, you’re catching up with friends, hugging your dog, playing with your pets, reading a book, taking a bath, whatever self-care looks like for you,” said Schmidt.

Talking to someone could be healing.

“Finding a trusted person that you can share those anxieties with. Don’t hold them in," said Schmidt. "Whether that be your therapist, whether that be your doctor, sharing concerns with your doctor.”

For more information on seeking help in Santa Barbara County, click here.

If you are in San Luis Obispo County, click here.