I'm not going to lie: I'm having a very hard time with this. I was diagnosed with anxiety disorder in 2018. It was largely under control but has come roaring back. So I may send these short newsletters out every now and again when I feel I find something that can be helpful.
I have three things:
1. Freelancers, get direct deposit right now. I got an email from a client saying that they have no way to physically cut checks since everyone is working from home. They want everyone to move to direct deposit. If you still get any paper checks from anyone, do this right now.
2. My freelance guardian angel Jennifer Goforth Gregory put out a blog post Friday about reaching out to all of your clients right now, and offering your services for quick turnaround work. I did this and am in the process of locking down a few assignments, some COVID19 related and some not. At first I thought it was crass. It's not. Some of my client have an overwhelming need for writers right now.
3. If you are overwhelmed yourself, teletherapy is available. I'm not sure how to distance myself from the news when I work in the news. I just filed a story about why testing has been so delayed, then put my head on my desk and cried. I am having a really hard time right now. The therapist who treated me in 2018 has retired, so I signed up for a counseling session through an online portal. Wirecutter has recommendations. I also found this article from SELF and this one from The New York Times helpful.
And for everyone: #stayhome. Even Arnold says so. And if you need something take your brain away from all this, I highly recommend Love is Blind. It's hot garbage and I love it.
Until Next Time,
Jen A. Miller
jenamiller.com
twitter.com/byjenamiller
instagram.com/jenamillerrunner
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