Have you heard the phrase “March comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb”? Well, along came COVID-19! While most of us were preparing for sunny days and warm weather, March 2020, threw us all for a loop by going out like an unpredictable, angry, raging bull!
Change can cause a multitude of emotions. Great change such as financial hardship, stay at home orders and the loss of loved ones caused by the introduction COVID-19 can cause, what I am calling, pandemic panic.
Outbreaks can be stressful
Fear and anxiety about an unpredictable disease can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions in adults and children. Learning to cope with stress can ease fear and anxiety for you, the people you care about, and your community.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, stress during an infectious disease outbreak can include
- Fear and worry about your own health and the health of your loved ones
- Changes in sleep or eating patterns
- Difficulty sleeping or concentrating
- Worsening of chronic health problems
- Worsening of mental health conditions
- Increased use of alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs
There are many factors that influence the way you respond to stress including your background, the things that make you different from other people, and the community you live in. Older adults, children, people with pre-existing mental health conditions, and first responders may respond strongly to the stress of a global health crisis.
How to Cope With Pandemic Panic
Taking care of yourself, your friends, and your family can help you cope with stress. Helping others cope with their stress can also make your community stronger.
- Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories, including social media. Hearing about the pandemic repeatedly can increase anxiety and fear.
- Take care of your body.
- Take deep breaths, stretch, or meditate to relaxing music or sounds.
- Try to eat healthy balanced meals and snacks.
- Exercise regularly- go for a walk/ run/ complete a workout video. <– Find free ones here!
- Get some rest
- Maintain a healthy routine
- Avoid alcohol and drugs
- Make time to unwind. Try to do some other activities you enjoy.
- Connect with others. Talk with people you trust about your concerns and how you are feeling.
- Schedule a therapy appointment with Research Triangle Counseling.
I hope that these tips were helpful for you! Want to share what has been working for you? Leave a comment below!
Together we will get through this! #COVIDTogether
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