This COVID-19 anxiety resource was originally shared in March 2020. It reflects the concerns and service arrangements of that period. The guest material by Dr. Wendy Rice has been edited for readability, with its attribution retained. For present-day health questions, consult your health care provider and current public health guidance.
As COVID-19 arrived in our community, many clients reached out about estate planning. Some wanted to update documents, while others wanted to begin a plan. Preparing for life’s uncertainties can help you clarify your wishes. A coordinated plan also supports the people who may need to act for you. In March 2020, Clarie Law Offices remained open and offered several ways to serve clients. The office shared those arrangements on this website. However, planning documents address only part of the uncertainty. We also noticed clients experiencing COVID-19 anxiety that affected their daily lives. We value our clients’ mental health. Therefore, we are sharing a resource created by Dr. Wendy Rice of Rice Psychology Group. We hope these resources offer comfort and help you find support during this difficult time. Be Well and Peace Be With You.
Managing Fear: Anxiety in the Age of COVID-19
By Dr. Wendy Rice
COVID-19 has been dominating the news headlines for months now. The spread of this virus can feel terrifying. Many people also face deep uncertainty. TV and social media carry a constant stream of information. As a result, it can be hard to decide which sources to trust for advice.
Are you unsure of what to do and who to listen to? Has this caused you a great amount of fear?
I’ve been feeling unsure about writing an article on this topic. I hate to add to the “noise” surrounding us. However, many of us are experiencing anxiety. Something hopeful and useful may help.
Understanding the Early Pandemic Response
First, consider why public officials and businesses announced temporary closures and cancellations in early 2020. They aimed to slow the spread of the virus. The goal was to avoid overwhelming a health care system facing a sudden surge in cases.
This is called “flattening out the curve.” These early measures aimed to reduce transmission. The purpose was to protect the community and help hospitals manage demand. We encourage you to read more about “flattening out the curve” here. This is an article by Forbes Senior Contributor.
Second, we encourage you to read this week’s blog at ricepsychology.com, “COVID-19: What to Expect During a Period of Uncertainty and Potential Panic.” This resource discusses anxiety, fear, and talking with children about the virus. Our focus here is psychological support. Please seek medical information from qualified health care sources.
Dr. Nikel Rogers-Wood also released a vlog on maintaining social connections during physical distancing. Please click here for her video.
Rice Psychology Group’s Original Message
Experiencing fear during this period of uncertainty is normal, but you needn’t ignore it. If you need to talk about your feelings, we are ready to listen. You can also ask about coping with the changes around you. Contact us today in Tampa to set up your appointment. If things change, we’re ready to work via “telehealth” to be a resource regardless of what transpires.
All my best… Wendy
About Rice Psychology Group
Rice Psychology Group works tirelessly to help clients of all ages identify, understand, and overcome the issues they may be experiencing.
You may be dealing with depression or worrying about your child. Perhaps an issue feels difficult to understand. Rice Psychology Group’s licensed psychologists and mental health counselors offer support.
Dr. Wendy Rice
Rice Psychology Group, P.A.
14310 N Dale Mabry Hwy Suite 150
Tampa,FL 33618
(813)-969-3878
COVID-19 Anxiety and Practical Estate Planning Questions
Uncertainty can make an ordinary task list feel overwhelming. If legal questions are adding to that pressure, start with one manageable step. Gather your existing estate planning documents and write down what you want to understand. You do not need to make every decision before speaking with an attorney.
For example, you may want to confirm who can help with financial matters or communicate with health care providers. Note any changes in your family, address, or the availability of people named in older documents. Then ask your attorney which issues need attention first. This creates a practical starting point for a focused discussion.
Finding the Right Support for Each Concern
Legal planning and mental health care serve different needs. Clarie Law can discuss wills, trusts, and related planning documents. A qualified mental health professional can help you address persistent anxiety or distress. In addition, the CDC’s stress management resource discusses everyday coping approaches and ways to seek support.
This archived COVID-19 anxiety article remains a community resource, with credit to Rice Psychology Group. Confirm current services directly with the relevant provider. For a legal planning conversation, explore our estate planning services or contact Clarie Law to arrange an appointment.
