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Jupiter psychotherapist lays out how to handle stress brought on by coronavirus

Time to 'stretch the idea of good,' she says
Jennifer Hoskins-Tomko
Posted at 12:53 PM, Mar 18, 2020
and last updated 2020-03-18 21:59:04-04

JUPITER, Fla. — Many South Florida and Treasure Coast residents are facing a high degree of stress brought on by the coronavirus and the ripple effects it has created the past few weeks.

With all schools being closed until at least April 15, moms and dads across our area have been faced with critical child care issues. While others have been faced with possible job layoffs and how they will pay their bills.

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On Wednesday, WPTV spoke with Jennifer Hoskins-Tomko, a psychotherapist and owner of Clarity Health Solutions in Jupiter.

Reporter Ryan Hughes asked her ways we can handle stress in regards to child care, financial issues, health problems and long-term impacts on families.

She says we can use this as an opportunity for growth -- whether its spending more time with our families or thinking outside of the box in regards to their career.

“If you are starting to feel that anxiety, then maybe it’s time to go for a walk or take a bath or sit down and play with the kids instead of reprimanding,” Hoskins-Tomko.

Regarding the possible loss of jobs and its impact on small businesses, she said it’s important for the public to be mindful of these groups and urges everyone to “stretch the idea of good.”

Hoskins-Tomko said you need to be transparent with your younger children that being out of school might seem great to them in the short term. However, the long-term impact might mean a longer school year or having to repeat a grade level.

With many of us self-quarantined at this time, she said it is imperative to continue to find ways to stay busy and have self-purpose, otherwise it can lead to depression.

On a positive note, she said this is a great time to reconnect with our spouses and children, which can be a challenge in our busy, hectic lives.

Also, this is a good opportunity to give back to the community and help a loved one or neighbor that might need groceries or are lonely during this time of self quarantine.

"This is not a time to isolate," she says.

Watch a Facebook Live with Hoskins-Tomko on WPTV’s Facebook page below: