MANAGING STRESS AROUND CORONAVIRUS OUTBREAK: HOW TO COPE WITH ANXIETY
As the spread and far-reaching impacts of Covid-19 dominate the world news, we have all been witnessing and experiencing the parallel spread of worry, anxiety, and instability. Indeed, in a crisis, our mental state often seems only to exacerbate an already extremely challenging condition, becoming a major obstacle in itself.
As you watch the events around the outbreak of Coronavirus unfurl, it is not unnatural to feel increasing stress and panic.
The news keeps pouring in and the information can be overwhelming and scary. You may have anxiety and fear due to a lot of issues such as dealing with at-risk family members or patients, trying to keep kids occupied while being indoors all day, managing to get work done while at home, or simply adjusting to the new condition. As the days go by, the stress can add up and affect you both physically and mentally.
The constantly negative news can be a lot to handle. Decide the amount of exposure to the news that works for you. Especially if there are children involved, make sure you expose them to only age-appropriate material. Every so often disconnect physically and mentally from anything to do with the Coronavirus coverage. Play with puzzles, read a book, reorganize or clean instead.
Unnecessary stress can reason you to overeat or eat unhealthy, adversely affecting your metabolism. Avoid emotional eating by identifying trigger factors and keeping away from the urge. Keep healthy snacks around you such as fruit bowls, nuts or even granola bars. Keeping your blood sugar levels stable throughout the day helps regulate your mood and emotions. Good nutrition also keeps your immune system healthy.
Exercise Regularly
Aerobic exercises can still be done within the walls of your home or the compound of your apartment, such as walking, running or climbing stairs. Even playing with your kids or pets can help burn off some calories.
Exercising helps release endorphins within your system, which play a vital role in elevating your mood and keeping a positive attitude. Stretching exercises and yoga also help keep you fit and your mind calm.
Practice Good Hygiene
Be extra vigilant and follow the precautions that have been advised. Keep your floors clean and sanitize hard surfaces commonly. Make sure you take a bath every day and are maintaining a daily personal hygiene routine.
Whether by putting pen to paper, capturing videos, scrapbooking, keeping a journal or by blogging, expressing yourself helps to cope with your feelings. You can either write extensively or just a line a day, as long as you find a hobby that works best for you. This keeps the stress away and gives you something to look forward to every day.
