SAN DIEGO (KGTV) - San Diegans are feeling whiplash after hearing recently reopened beaches were going to close. Governor Gavin Newsom announced Thursday he was only going to shut down Orange County beaches, not the entire state's coastline.
Newsom admonished beachgoers in Orange County for overcrowding during a news conference earlier this week.
The initial decision came to light when a memo from the California Police Chiefs Association was leaked Wednesday.
The back and forth on beach closures, in addition to the constant changes due to the pandemic cause stress, according to psychologists.
"There is no real control over this virus, we do not know how long this is going to take. We do not know when the vaccines are coming out officially and getting them to scale and making sure everybody is safe. All of these unknowns is something we're not good with. We need to feel secure, we need to have the security of answers," Licensed Psychologist Dr. Michelle Carcel said.
She said it's important to acknowledge your feelings and know that this is a difficult time.
Carcel also said we are not 'built to be inside for this long.'
Carcel recommends changing your perspective, creating a schedule with items you've been putting off that make you happy. "Read a few books here that I haven't gotten to, make that a priority, I really want to make sure I'm doing more physical exercise and keeping social distancing outside, go for it!"
She added there are videos online that can teach you how to paint, or draw, and opportunities to check out virtual books from the library.
She also advises keeping in touch with friends and family (while social distancing) and relishing in things we can do, like enjoy nature.
"The ocean is such a cleansing, wonderful thing for us and frankly anything outdoors can really help our mental health state," she said.
She reminded us we will get through this.
Suggesting if we lean on one another and listen to healthcare professionals, we will reach our goal sooner.
If you need help, call the Optum emotional helpline at 866-342-6892.
Or the 24-hour Suicide Prevention Lifeline:1-800-273-8255 or text 838255,24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 or click Chat Now.Call 911 if you or the person you are helping is in immediate danger.
The City of San Diego and Encinitas opened some beaches to exercise Monday.
Del Mar was set to open their beach, for exercise as well, Thursday before word of the Governor's announcement. They will hold a meeting Friday to make a decision.
Solana Beach said they are aiming to reopen under similar conditions next week.
