How can we really fight back this pandemic season?

𝗖𝗼𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗣𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗺𝗶𝗰 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀

The prescribed social isolation methods provide the best outcomes in battling the pandemic, but they also cause routine changes for everyone. Fear and anxiety are normal reactions to the state of crisis and uncertainty. Here are some ideas to help you organize your thoughts and overcome the challenges of the new normal system.

𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘆 𝘀𝗮𝗳𝗲 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘃𝗶𝗿𝘂𝘀 The most important safety practices that reduce COVID-19 virus transmission are also crucial for anxiety management. When you have the choice, stay at home. If you're not at home, wear face masks and wash your hands regularly and thoroughly.

𝗔𝗰𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗹𝘆 𝗱𝗲𝗮𝗹 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗲𝗺𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 It's easy to become overwhelmed by anxiety and negative emotions when events are beyond your control. You may believe that suppressing your emotions, putting on a brave face, fake smile, or forcing yourself to be positive would give the best results. Denying or suppressing your emotions, on the other hand, will simply add to your stress and worry, making you more vulnerable to depression and burnout. Always remember that it's okay to feel emotions. It's what makes us human. Although there's nothing else you can do to change the circumstances, you may still actively address your emotions, even the most unpleasant and terrifying ones. Allowing yourself to feel emotions might help you cope with stress, find strength and comfort as you face challenges.

𝗟𝗶𝗺𝗶𝘁 𝗺𝗲𝗱𝗶𝗮 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗼𝘀𝘂𝗿𝗲 Limit your COVID-19 media intake. I know that it's important to be aware of the certain issues we are facing right now but, excessive checking news about the pandemic can leave you anxious and emotionally fatigued. Disconnect and develop healthy news habits by seeking factual information from reliable sources, and setting certain times for checking the news.

𝗦𝗲𝘁 𝗮 𝗱𝗮𝗶𝗹𝘆 𝗿𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗲 Much in life is unpredictable right now, and many things are beyond your control. While you can't stop a virus from spreading, you aren't completely powerless. Instead of worrying and overthinking about the uncontrollable, refocus your thoughts on taking action in the situations where you have control. In the midst of the uncertainty, creating a planned schedule for each day will offer you a sense of control. Divide your day into little activities and be sure to schedule time for the things you enjoy, such as hobbies or working out, as well as time with your loved ones. Also, make an effort to obtain enough sleep and consume healthy meals regularly.

𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗰𝗵 𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗼𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗽𝗲𝗼𝗽𝗹𝗲 Staying at home all day can feel lonely and isolating if you don't have any social interactions. Reaching out and connecting with others is important for our mental health. Simply talking about our emotions with loved ones can make us feel better. Keeping your stress levels under control can be as simple as talking to a friend or family member. Make at least one connection per day, such as a phone call or a talk with a classmate or acquaintance with whom you can share your experiences. Consider doing regular virtual check-ins with family and friends to see how they're doing. During these trying times, this can be a great source of comfort. Do not hesitate to seek professional assistance if you're unable to cope with fear and anxiety on your own. It's undeniable that the pandemic has brought our lives upside down, causing a huge amount of stress. Therefore, taking care and prioritizing our mental health is crucial. We should never forget that mental health is just as important as physical health.