The Covid-19 pandemic; steep prices at the gas pump; less buying power for necessities at the grocery store; anxieties over a war in Ukraine. Different people have different thresholds for managing stress, but even those with the highest tolerance can only absorb so much before needing help to cope. According to a recent survey from the American Psychological Association, more than 80 percent of Americans are feeling stress – a figure the association called “alarming” since the typical percentage is about 65 percent.

The reasons are many:

• 87 percent cited inflation
• 81 percent mentioned supply chain issues
• 81 percent blamed global uncertainty
• 80 percent pointed to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine as the source of their stress.

With these issues seemingly beyond the control of any individual, it’s understandable that feelings of fear and despair can emerge. The question is: What can anyone bearing the weight of stress do to alleviate it?

Coping strategies and resources

Here are a few self-help tips to aid in identifying and overcoming the triggers of stress.

• Understand your feelings. Whether traumatized by the events of Ukraine or worried about your ability to afford higher prices, you can feel like the bad news will never end. It’s okay not to feel okay. Recognizing these feelings and articulating them can make things seem less overwhelming.
• Pace yourself. When in the throes of stressful emotions, don’t feel you have to get everything done. The small stuff can wait. Make a list of what needs to get done urgently, and include time for self-soothing, such as going for a walk or practicing deep-breathing exercises.
• Keep up healthy habits. Stress can also trigger unhealthy habits, such as eating poorly or overindulging on alcohol. Get plenty of sleep and exercise regularly, too.

Professional help when and where you need it

Horizon Behavioral Health (HBH) is a network of more than 8,000 providers who offer a full range of mental health services to treat the whole person. HBH’s network has grown by 40 percent over the last two years and continues to grow in size and diversity to better serve our members.

We offer several options to help you find the care you need, when you need it, whether virtual or in-person:

• If you would like to speak to someone who will point you in the right direction, any time day or night, just call Horizon Behavioral Services at 800-626-2212.
• You can also visit Horizon’s doctor and hospital finder to search for in-network virtual or in-person care.
• Horizon CareOnline℠ enables eligible members to speak with licensed psychiatrists, psychologists and social workers via video or phone, 7 days a week between 7 a.m. and 11 p.m. You can read each doctor’s profile and patient reviews before selecting one for your care. Access Horizon CareOnline by logging in to our secure member portal at HorizonBlue.com or by downloading the HorizonBlue app. Don’t have the app? Just text GETAPP to 422-272. There is no charge to download the app, but rates from the wireless provider may apply.
• Continuing a trend that grew significantly during the pandemic, Horizon offers behavioral health services virtually via its teletherapy program, in addition to in-person care. Teletherapy costs are covered through members’ health plan, with either low or no co-pays.

Don’t let stress, anxiety, depression or other behavioral health issues overwhelm you. The right care is here for you.

To learn more about your behavioral health benefits and costs, consult your summary of benefits or call the number on the back of your member ID card.

Horizon CareOnline℠ is a service mark of Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey.

Horizon Health News is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.