Ways to Cope Anxiety During Pandemic

Anju Sharma - Blog - Ways to Cope Anxiety During Pandemic

 

In these unprecedented times, I know that everyone is experiencing some level of anxiety in their lives. Factors for this could be anything from the physical distancing from loved ones, being isolated in one space, facing financial difficulties, to worrying about children’s education or elderly’s health. This can definitely impact our physical and mental health. Therefore, I recognize the importance of finding ways to cope with this anxiety. Here are several suggestions that I have done for you to consider.

  1. Journal your concerns and fears: By writing down your thoughts and feelings, you may be able to understand them more clearly. Journaling helps to process these fears and concerns, and find potential solutions for them. 

  2. Connect virtually with others: Just because we are physically distanced, this does not mean we cannot be socially connected! Thanks to the era of modern technologies, we can connect with anyone virtually. Set up a video date to reconnect with old friends or have an online party. 

  3. Minimize your news intake about the pandemic: At the moment, there is non-stop news from all sources about COVID-19. This can get extremely overwhelming and difficult to digest it all. A suggestion is to consume only the key info that you need and then move on to get news about other topics. 

  4. Watch videos or read books that are positive and uplifting: When you watch videos or read books that bring you laughter and joy, you become overall in a better mood and forget what you previously were worried about. This is because the neurotransmitters in the brain are altered. So, go ahead and surround yourself with positivity!

  5. Pursue a hobby or online course: Have you been looking for the time to play your old guitar? Or taking an online course to learn how to write a book that you have been thinking about? If yes, this is the perfect time to pursue your hobbies or take a course online. This will help you distract from your anxiety as the hobby or course will give you a new direction in life.

  6. Take deep breaths: Deep breathing increases oxygen to your brain and stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system. Thus you will feel a sense of calmness.

  7. Move your body: Even if your local gym is closed during the pandemic, this shouldn’t stop you from finding creative ways to move your body. This movement will help circulate the blood and bring oxygen to your health. You can try various kickboxing or dance routines on YouTube! Other ideas are to do jumping jacks in your backyard or pushups in your bedroom. 

  8. Make donations: During distressing times, it is always good to help others. It will help you realize that the anxiety you have is much less than what others may be facing. Many can’t even feed their families due to financial reasons. Therefore, your donations, such as giving food to your local food bank or gently used items to centers, can help them tremendously!

 

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