How to Deal with Stress and Anxiety During the Covid-19 Pandemic

Where so much focus is being put on the physical health and well-being of everyone it can be easy to overlook the mental impacts a crisis such as this can have. During a pandemic, such as Covid-19, it’s normal to feel confused, overwhelmed, scared and distressed. The uncertainty surrounding the Coronavirus outbreak is bound to cause stress and anxiety especially with constantly changing news reports, travel restrictions, and concerns for your own and your loved ones’ health.

As the situation unfolds it’s likely you’ll experience a wide range of thoughts, feelings, emotions and reactions. To help you and your loved ones deal with the stress of the Covid-19 pandemic, here are a few coping strategies.

Stay connected

With many businesses closing their offices and the self-isolation process being put into place this could mean you’re stuck at home. In this case, it’s important to ensure that you stay connected to friends, family and colleagues. Talking to others and receiving support and care from loved ones can help. Acknowledge your feelings and talk through your concerns with others, in the current situation it’s likely that they will be feeling the same way.

Have an action plan

There are some steps you can take to decrease risk. Even if it’s just as simple as washing your hands well and limiting travel, recognizing these can remind you to focus on things you have control over. Just make sure that you check trustworthy sources to ensure that the steps you’re taking are actions are the right ones.

Maintain your routine

Try to maintain your day-to-day normal activities and routine where possible. Routine has a big impact on your thoughts and feelings so keeping a normal daily structure can help you to keep a positive mindset.

If you must stay at home try to maintain a healthy lifestyle, eat well, sleep well and exercise regularly.

Only read the facts

If you’re becoming panicked by some of the things that you’re reading or hearing, it’s advised that you limit the time you or your family spend watching or reading media coverage.

If you want to stay informed seek information from credible sources such as the World Health Organisation (WHO) or public health agencies. This will help you to accurately determine the risk so that you can then take the necessary precautions.

Take a break from reading the news if you find that it upsets and distresses you.

Seek professional help

If your mental health is being seriously affected by the stress of Coronavirus then it’s advised that you seek professional help from a licensed mental health worker. They can help you to manage your anxiety and fears by giving you coping mechanisms.

Be sure to look after both the mental and physical health of you, your family and your friends the best you can.