The Coronavirus outbreak brought the entire world to a complete stop. As recommended by the World Health Organization, one of the most effective ways to beat this virus is through social distancing. To mitigate the damage, countries all over the world have shut down one after the other. It was not an easy decision to make, but a necessary precaution to contain the spread of the virus.
With so many uncertainties around, it is understandable to feel anxious most of the time. The possibility of contracting the disease from anyone, the likelihood of losing one’s job due to the lockdown, and not knowing where to get your next meal are among the few thoughts that are flitting on everyone’s minds. All these can take an emotional toll on one’s mental health. During a crisis, mental health should never be compromised. Here are a few tips to help you cope better during these times.
Take a break
Arming yourself with the right knowledge can keep you protected, but there is such a thing as information overload. Too much information can overwhelm the mind and lead to feeling even more anxious than comforted. Be selective with the information you feed to yourself. Make sure this comes from a reliable source to prevent unnecessary panic over inaccurate news.
Likewise, set a respectable time limit in consuming the daily news. Right now, we have limited capabilities to change the situation but this does not mean we should not focus on things that we can control. Self-regulate the amount of news you consume daily. The same goes for social media sites. Nowadays, aside from entertainment, social media sites are our go-to for news updates. If these sites can worsen your anxiety, then regulation is the remedy.
Take care of your body
They say a healthy body equals a healthy mind. These two go together. Make a conscious effort in taking good care of your body. Keep your body healthy to lessen the amount of stress you are feeling.
For instance, utilize this time by going to bed at a reasonable hour. Search online for home workouts. Cook healthier meals for you and your family. Make the best out of the time you have by investing more in your health. If your health is in tip-top shape, your mind will have less to worry about.
Unwind
Back when everything was normal, people often dreamed of slowing down and taking a breather. Now is the perfect time for this. If you are bored, why not try relieving an old hobby of yours. Read a good book or watch all the movies that you’ve missed. Do all the activities often reserved for rainy days. Make an effort to keep yourself busy with the activities you enjoy. Remember, an idle mind cultivates worrisome thoughts.
Connect with others
Social distancing does not mean total isolation. Make the most of the new technology. Schedule a video call with your friends, host a watch party of your favorite movie, or call your grandma. Virtual connectivity might be your only means for now, but it does ease the loneliness present in our situation.
It is understandable for people to feel anxious especially with the abrupt change of our world due to this pandemic. But with a little bit of help, we can lessen the stress from our minds and make the best out of the situation.
References:
Coronavirus Anxiety: Coping with Stress, Fear, and Uncertainty, https://www.helpguide.org/articles/anxiety/coronavirus-anxiety.htm