Breakthrough: Pandemic Habits

For some, the COVID-19 pandemic meant picking up some new hobbies, but for others it has meant adding a few unwanted habits.

For some, the COVID-19 pandemic meant picking up some new hobbies, and perhaps learning a new trade -- remember the bread-making craze. But for others, it’s meant adding a few unwanted habits.  That may be impulse shopping…losing sleep to Netflix binges…or snacking more and exercising less. According to the American Psychological Association, 42% of adults report undesired weight gain since the pandemic started.  If you’re trying to get rid of bad habits, whatever they may be, experts agree: It's best to take it slow. “Just choose one thing at one or two times of the day and try to work with that for a period of time until you get settled and then add on the second thing,” suggested Flavia DeSouza, a Board-Certified Psychiatrist and Assistant Professor at Howard University.