Within the past 2 weeks our world has changed dramatically! Who would have ever imagined that our way of life would be altered so drastically and quickly? Wasn’t it just a few days ago, we listened as journalists told about this new virus, which was wreaking havoc in China and other faraway lands? You may have felt concern and sympathy, but now it’s not so far away. It’s here! In fact, you may know of someone who is sick, or has succumbed to the disease. Many of us are experiencing a range of emotions. Fear and anxiety about the disease can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions in children and adults. Persistent and excessive worrying, restlessness, feeling keyed up, or being on edge, a sense of dread, easily fatigued, difficulty concentrating, irritability, muscle tension and sleep disturbance are some of the symptoms of anxiety. It seems only natural to feel some type of anxiety during these uncertain times. It may be difficult not to worry considering, the amount of news content and discussion devoted to COVID19. If you are feeling stressed and anxious here are 6 things you can do to manage your feelings.
1. Take a break from watching, reading, or listening to news stories, including social media. Of course, it’s important to be aware of what’s going on; however, hearing about the pandemic repeatedly can be upsetting. Maybe you can allow yourself twice a day to watch, once in the AM and once in the PM.
2. Connect with others. Talk about how you’re feeling with someone you trust.
3. Practice some form of relaxation. Deep-breathing exercises have been found to be effective in lowering anxiety. There are many deep breathing apps available, which can be downloaded to your device.
4. Prayer and meditation. Perhaps you have a list of your favorite scriptures, which have provided comfort in other stressful times. Reading and then meditating upon them can be a great stress reducer.
5. Self-Talk is important! It’s important to replace negative self-talk with positive self-talk. “God is in control of every matter, which concerns me”. This is one thought, which I use often when feeling a bit anxious.
6. Go for a walk. Walking has it’s physical and mental health benefits. We all need Vitamin D. This vitamin is created from natural sunlight. Walking allows us the chance to process our thoughts and feelings Taking care of yourself can help you cope with the stress and anxiety of these uncertain times.
