A recent poll from the American Psychiatric Association shows Americans are struggling with anxiety over the coronavirus. It revealed that four out of ten are anxious about becoming ill or dying, five in ten are worried about contracting the virus, and six in ten are concerned about family members getting COVID-19.
There is also mounting pressure over the next paycheck, unpaid bills, and social isolation. To cope with the stress from COVID-19, it’s crucial that people take some steps to keep their anxiety at bay. Taking a break from all the alarming news, eating right, and getting some exercise are just some of the tips that experts believe will help you cope.
Here are some suggestions to consider:
Reduce panic with knowledge
There is no shortage of information about the coronavirus. Unfortunately, much of it is inaccurate or only partly true. When you look for up-to-date information, stick to credible sources such as the World Health Organization (WHO) or Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). When you use information from trusted resources, you can develop personal plans of action
Talk to your kids
Your children may be apprehensive about the coronavirus. It’s important to acknowledge those feelings and not dismiss them immediately. Listen to them and fill them in with accurate information that will calm their fears and help them to reduce their risk of catching it.
Keep the discussions focused on preventive actions. Show them proper handwashing techniques, and praise them whenever you see that they are using them. Try to maintain regular routines for playtime, meals, and other activities.
If someone in your family is sick with COVID-19 or any other illness, your kids might not understand what is happening. Give them clear explanations and keep focusing on proactive solutions. It’s essential that you keep them to an established routine to keep their stress and worries to a minimum.
Practice mindfulness
During these times, you are counting on your immune system more than ever. But stress can have an adverse effect on it. While no one is sure whether short-term stress makes someone more susceptible to catching the coronavirus, it’s still a good idea to take steps to reduce your stress. One method for achieving this is to ground yourself in the present moment through mindfulness. This technique is not difficult—you sit quietly and focus on your breathing and senses—but it is a proven way to reduce stress.
You can also control your stress levels by limiting your time on the computer and reducing your exposure to all forms of media. It might be important for you to stay informed, but too many COVID-19 updates can have you feeling overwhelmed, and soon fear starts controlling your life.
