How to Calm COVID-19 Anxieties
Managing mental health and wellbeing during a global pandemic.
Coronavirus, otherwise medically known as COVID-19, is plastered across social media feeds and news outlets across the world. Updating every day, sometimes every hour, the virus is generating feelings of fear, helplessness and anxiety. The World Health Organisation has recognised that the virus is causing stress and unease, yet information regarding how to quell health anxiety is not so clear. A demographic particularly in need of such advice is the UK’s student population.
As a student, the uncertainty of the national situation is particularly trying. Having just emerged from a second wave of UCU strikes, this academic year has already been turbulent for many Universities across the country. Upon speaking to other students I have found that we all share the frustration of our academic progress being hindered and our immediate future being so unclear.
My colleagues, also students, shared similar concerns. One describes an “odd sense of anxiety’ and “a mixed feeling of excitement and dread [of the unknown].” Another highlighted the direct impact of the virus on her University studies; “I struggle to study independently, so having lectures online is a little bit of a challenge for me.” Obviously, these feelings of anxiety and stress do not mix well with the required focus and critical thinking of University studies.
For those with a pre-existing mental illness especially, the disruption of routines, the prospect of separation from loved ones and the loss of freedom can be a scary and stressful prospect. Personally, I have been struggling with being between residences during a time of uncertain travel regulations. This is a concern of most students who fear being stuck in University, away from family and, in some cases, isolated from friends. For those with mental health issues, this exaggerates pre-existing feelings of panic and excessive worry.
So, how can we best manage anxieties surrounding COVID-19? Here are a few things to think about during this time of uncertainty:
Ration your media intake
There is a fine line between staying informed with the latest and obsessively refreshing our newsfeed for updates. If you’re feeling overwhelmed it is important to take a step back and detox from social media. Also, bear in mind that updates can be triggering for those suffering from anxiety or panic disorders. In this case, only read the essential news items.
Prepare ways to combat stress
Instead of fuelling your feelings of anxiety and distress, apply your nervous energy to your daily tasks. Establish a routine and aim to maintain it. Remember – it’s normal to feel afraid but panic won’t solve anything. Focus on things within your control such as maintaining personal hygiene, practising self-care, exercising and keeping up with studies. It may feel impossible but the sooner you establish this as a regular routine, the sooner it will become the new ‘normal’.
Keep in touch
Practising quarantine, self-isolation, and social distancing can be lonely, especially for those who live alone or struggle with mental illness. Even though your social interactions will take on a different form, it is vital to keep in touch with loved ones in order to quell feelings of loneliness and boredom. Find other, more positive things to talk about and stay connected!
Remember – we’re all in this together
Yes, the cheesiest High School Musical song is right. Everybody across the country and even across the world is in the same boat, you are not alone. Focus on looking after yourself and provide relief to family and friends when possible. This will pass and we will get through it together.
The worst case scenario does not always reflect reality and any anxiety you feel regarding our current situation is not permanent. Stay grounded, keep things in perspective, and wash your hands.
To keep everyone’s spirits up, the Health & Wellbeing team will be sending out a weekly newsletter. As well as blogs, mini podcasts and other online resources, we’ll be converting some of our workshops to online content. Sign up here if you are interested!
For updated coronavirus information and guidance from the Department of Health and Social Care, visit this page.
For updated information regarding the University of Leeds’ response to the COVID-19 situation, visit https://coronavirus.leeds.ac.uk
