Managing Stress and Coping with COVID-19
As you watch the events around the outbreak of COVID-19 unwind, it is not abnormal to feel increasing stress and panic. You may have tension and fear due to a lot of issues such as dealing with at-risk family members or patients, managing to get work done while at home, or simply settling to the new condition. As the days go by, the stress can add up and affect you both physically and mentally.
Public health actions, such as social distancing, can make people feel isolated and lonely and can increase stress and anxiety. However, these actions are necessary to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Coping with stress in a healthy way will make you, the people you care about, and your community stronger. If you must stay at home, maintain a healthy lifestyle — including proper diet, sleep, exercise, and social contact with loved ones at home and by social media and phone with other family and friends.
Take a break from the news
Information overload can be upsetting. Make an effort to switch off your screens once in a while. Only gather important facts. Gather information that will help you accurately determine your risk so that you can take reasonable precautions. Find a credible source you can trust such as a WHO website or, a local or state public health agency. Limit worry and agitation by lessening the time you and your family spend watching or listening to media coverage that you perceive as upsetting.
Take care of your body
Meditate, eat well-balanced meals, take deep breaths. Aside from staying safe, stay healthy. Don’t use smoking, alcohol, or other drugs to deal with your emotions. If you feel overwhelmed, talk to a health worker or counselor. Exercising helps release endorphins within your system, which play a vital role in elevating your mood and keeping a positive attitude. Stretching exercises and yoga also help keep you fit and your mind calm. Have a plan, where to go to, and how to seek help for physical and mental health needs if required.
Make time to unwind
Use a few minutes of your day to do something you enjoy. Draw on skills you have used in the past that have helped you to manage previous life’s adversities and use those skills to help you manage your emotions during the challenging time of this outbreak. Learn or practice some new skills to keep you occupied.
Connect with others
Talk to people you trust about your concerns and how you’re feeling. It is normal to feel sad, stressed, confused, scared, or angry during a crisis. Talking to people you trust can help. Contact your friends and family.
The situation may be overwhelming, but coping with stress will make you, the people you care about, and your community stronger. So, embrace the journey of stress management with an open mind and a willingness to learn. Seek out resources, guidance, and support when needed, and never underestimate the power of small steps toward self-improvement.
