Ways Utah business leaders and employees can cope with COVID-19 stressors

There has been much advice given to businesses and their employee bases about how to triumph over the unsettled nature of the pandemic. A lot of it is based more in finances and how to handle human resource concerns as opposed to the psychological toll it can take.

But, it’s very important to take a step back from the uphill climb to take care of your own mental health during a crisis such as the coronavirus pandemic. With many pressures weighing in on business owners and employees – not to mention the clients or customers they serve – finding the best ways for you to cope is a priority now more than ever.

Recognizing this, Utah Business magazine recently ran a great story with tips on keeping mentally balanced during the pandemic. It was written by Jeni Jones, the communication specialist for Intermountain Healthcare. The advice in this story needs to be shared as an important aspect of coping in these unusual and stressful times.

In the story, Jones details some strategies to manage a lot of the psychological conditions that might take place while trying to get through daily life during a crisis: depression, anxiety, loneliness and fear, chief among them. Here is a look at what Jones, from information she gathered as part of her work at Intermountain, recommends.

Staying active, with or without technology

Jones points out that there are downloadable apps that can help you practice mindfulness, address your levels of anxiety, and help with stress. One app called myStrength is even free from the State of Utah (once you find it, use the code UDHSguest33 for access).

It’s important, though, to go beyond the screen to find de-stressors, and that’s where exercise comes in. Jones writes that even though gyms and parks might be closed or on limited hours with restrictions, there are ways to bring more physical activity into your daily routine.

“Set an alarm on your phone at regular intervals to remind you to get up and move around,” Jones writes. “Take a quick walk outside around the block. Coordinate with friends or family to do a ‘steps’ challenge to compete for the highest number of steps in a designated time frame.”

She also suggests a fun one – just make sure your Zoom screen isn’t up: “Pump your favorite music and take 5 minutes to dance every day (even if alone!).”

Finding the right time for yourself and others

Jones also suggests staying in touch with friends and family, even if social distancing can make that a challenge. Video chats with people in your close circle, including talks about how everyone is coping, can be valuable. While it may not be in person, it can be considered face-to-face.

Time in general can be a great tool for lessening the impact of the stress of everyday life. Setting a regular schedule – including the all-important sleep cycle – is key. It’s also important to take the time to relax during that schedule. Focused or thoughtful meditation, even for 10 minutes a day, can do wonders for someone’s mental health.

Another technique is to limit how much you are actually reading or seeing about the pandemic, something that isn’t as easy to do in a 24/7 news cycle. Jones suggests also following reliable sources such as the CDC for your information.

One of the most vital aspects to remember is to simply ask for help and reach out if the stress is becoming too much to bear. Jones’ article lists several self-help hotlines and ideas if that is needed.

In general, keeping things in perspective is a good rule of thumb to navigate these times. “Things will return to normal eventually,” Jones states. “Keeping things in perspective can help you to make good decisions and take care of yourself and others.”

Mobile site keeps banking secure for Utah businesses

Security of mind is something that needs to be nurtured and developed, as shown above. One way to continue that feeling of security is to know you are banking with a trusted, hometown source. First Utah Bank can provide this, especially through our treasury management mobile app.

Having mobile business banking means a more flexible way to complete transactions and work goes beyond just the standards of managing your money. It’s not only convenient, but with dual control you also have the security you need to make sure your funds are always safe.

The mobile app can be an essential tool for fraud prevention, with it being easily detected and stopped all from your smartphone. There are also customized push alerts to let you know when important transactions are ready for you to approve. It also uses several layers of authentication in order to provide the highest security possible.

Learn more about this service and others in Treasury Management by visiting our website, or by calling First Utah Bank at 801-308-2265.