The world’s population is collectively going through a difficult time. The coronavirus pandemic is, understandably, causing a lot of stress. The number of people testing positive for the disease continues to exceed the number of those who have recovered.
As more countries continue to take active measures in combating the disease, people are urged to stay at home and take care of themselves. But this physical isolation is taking a toll on several people. The constant stream of new updates and the general feeling of uncertainty are weighing heavy on people’s minds.
Although you are encouraged to take care of your physical health, this doesn’t mean you should ignore your mental health. Being alone with your thoughts right now might be distressing. But there are ways you can manage your anxiety during this unprecedented time.
It’s okay not to be okay.
It is completely understandable that you are not your usual self right now. You shouldn’t feel guilty about feeling bad for yourself. You can still be empathetic to the situation outside without ignoring your own feelings. If you continue to bottle up your emotions, it might result in more distress and even a panic attack.
By recognizing your anxiety, you are able to take back control. Explore its cause to determine the situations you need to be wary of in the future. Center yourself to treat your anxiety. Once you’ve accepted its presence, you can get to work on managing it.
Do some self-reflection.
You know yourself better than others. This means you know which steps to take to manage your anxiety. Acknowledge your feelings, both the positive and the negative, and allow them to exist. Doing so allows you to get on with your day.
You might feel uneasy as you educate yourself on the pandemic. Sadness might creep up on you during your video call with family. Panic might take root in your stomach as you make your grocery run. Acknowledging those feelings allows you to push through and get better personal control.
Be a little kinder on yourself.
Expect anxiety to be part of life, at least during this complicated time. There is no “beating” it like other illnesses. Once you accept this, it becomes easier to manage it.
- Cut yourself some slack. Times are tough and stressful. You will have days when everything is overwhelming. It is perfectly normal to breakdown over the situation.
- Don’t dwell on the negative feelings. Everyone is struggling with dark thoughts. The key to preventing them from taking over is understanding their ebb and flow.
- Be considerate of others. The global health crisis is challenging everyone. People’s coping mechanisms are unique to them. Grant them the kindness you give to yourself.
The coronavirus pandemic is putting everyone on edge. Don’t lose your head while in quarantine. Get to know yourself better to manage your stress and anxiety. Take care of yourself, physically and mentally. Even in self-isolation, you are not alone. Your family and friends are a call or text message away. You can get through this together.