If you’re like most people, you are doing your best to stay calm during all of the stress and anxiety of COVID-19. But that can feel incredibly difficult at times. When not worrying about friends and loved one’s health, there’s also the conflicting information provided by the media and the economic ramifications of the virus that have people on edge.
Signs of Stress and Anxiety
Everyone reacts differently to stressful situations, but most will exhibit some of the following signs:
- Changes in sleep or eating patterns
- Difficulty concentrating
- Worsening of chronic health problems
- Increased use of alcohol, tobacco or other drugs
- Feeling irritable
- Obsessing about the latest information on COVID-19
7 Ways to Cope
If you are experiencing significant stress and anxiety right now, here are some ways you can cope:
- Limit your media consumption
Hearing the media constantly spread panic isn’t good for anyone. It’s important to stay rational and do your own research with trusted sites to uncover facts from fiction as well as stay positive. It’s good to be informed but it is unhelpful to obsess about this information.
- Nurture your body and spirit
Be sure to get outside for some fresh air and go for a walk. Eat healthfully, make sure to stay hydrated and get plenty of sleep. Avoid consuming too much alcohol and try and find fun ways to reconnect with your family.
- Tap into your sense of fun
If you have kids, look to them for some good old-fashioned playtime. Play hide and seek in the house. Create an obstacle course in the back yard. Watch some of your favorite funny movies. Laughter really is the best medicine. So get plenty of it!
- Support your local community
Many local businesses are hurting right now. If you’re still getting a paycheck, consider buying a gift card from a local restaurant, gym, hair salon, etc. to give them revenue now and you can use the card later. This will make you feel great at the same time.
- Be a role model
Remember, your kids will ALWAYS look to you first to see how they should be thinking and feeling about something. So move about each day calmly and confidently and reassure your kids everything will be okay because it will be.
- Use your time constructively
For many of us, there is a silver lining in this situation in the form of extra time. What can you do with the extra time that isn’t being used to drive an hour or more each day in commuting? Focus on using this time wisely. Maybe you have an ever-growing list of home projects that you just never have time to tack.e. Tackle them now, you’ll feel great about it later.
7. Social distancing is only physical
Even thought we are all practicing social distancing, this really only refers to the practice of physical distancing. It does not imply distancing yourself socially or emotionally from friends and family. Remember to connect with the important people in your life. Share the struggles as well as the day-to-day wins. You will get through this together.
If you find yourself experiencing the stress and anxiety of COVID-19 or maybe even feeling depressed during this time, we encourage you to connect with us. Speaking with a therapist can help you cope with the situation and navigate the days ahead. We are currently able to conduct sessions over the phone / video calls, so you won’t even have to leave your home if you are in lockdown-mode.
Learn more about individual therapy here.
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