It has been more than a year since COVID-19 changed the way we lived our lives. Since the community quarantines, rising COVID cases and other drastic changes to society, people have been living in uncertainty. One moment, everything seems fine as the world attempts to resume normal life despite the virus. The next thing we know, we’re reading or seeing news of rising COVID cases and death tolls.
With everything that’s going on, it’s natural to feel anxious.
Although anxiety is a normal reaction to the pandemic, too much worrying can be harmful to your health. Feeling fearful and stressed every day takes a toll on your well-being and health quickly.
COVID-19 is a serious issue, but don’t let the pandemic rob you of joy.
How to Deal with COVID Anxiety
Know That Feeling Anxious About COVID-19 is OK
With rising COVID-19 cases, social distancing from loved ones and, for many people, a loss of purpose and routine, almost everyone has been dealing with a mental health crisis. Anxiety and depression are the common crises among people — and that’s understandable.
Anxiety is a person’s natural way of trying to protect themselves by pushing the person to resolve uncertainty as they try to find a solution.
Although eliminating all COVID-19-related stress is a tall order, you can still manage it to maintain your physical and mental health.
Channel Your Anxiety Into Action: Research, Plan, and Prepare
People often feel anxious when events feel out of their control or when they think they don’t have the ability, skills or capacity to cope. Anxiety tricks us to jump ahead and think about the worst-case scenarios in high definition.
Instead of worrying, focus your energies on what you can control. Learn more about the pandemic from trusted sources. Follow government-mandated health care advice and plan how you and your family will deal with COVID-19.
Avoid or Limit Unhelpful Media and Misinformation
Being exposed to alarming and anxiety-inducing stories regularly can give you more reasons to panic. Misinformation, rumors and myths can only fuel your anxiety. The more you read and hear about them, the more you’ll be worried and frightened.
Although it may be tempting to stay informed, limiting your exposure to social media, news and other media about COVID-19 can help calm you.
Do What You Can to Protect Yourself and Your Family
The virus is still out there so do what you can to protect yourself and your loved ones to reduce all of your COVID-related worries. After all, action is the antidote to anxiety and there are many ways you can protect yourself and your family from the virus.
Start by washing your hands frequently and thoroughly. When going out, always wear your masks and face shields. When meeting with people in person, keep your distance with them.
Stay Connected with Others
Sharing your worries with others can make a huge difference in how you deal with your worries. Even though it’s tempting to stay isolated when you’re anxious, refrain from doing so. Instead, connect with your support system online. Talk with people will make you feel less anxious and lonely. Get a group together to play online games, and take your mind off the pandemic — even if for a short while.
Engage in any activity that’ll help you appreciate the little things you may have taken for granted before the lockdowns and quarantines.
COVID-19 may have changed the way we live, but it need not rob you of your joy. Free yourself from anxiety with these COVID anxiety tips.
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