The time that we all are going through today is full of uncertainty. Thanks to the deadly Corona virus that showed us such a time that we could ever think of. I had never thought that I would see a pandemic in my lifetime that engulfs the entire world. But I have seen, we all have seen this hard reality. In these uncertain times, it is obvious that you could feel anxious, stressed-out, and nervous thinking about the future. Researchers have witnessed that pandemics like this tend to result in an increased mental health issues like substance abuse, behavioural disorders and depression. The daily news of the current COVID situation, with the increasing number of infected cases, casualties etc. is adversely affecting the mental health of many people each day.
Lockdown & Anxiety – the interlinked entities
Many countries around the world, including India, had imposed strict lockdown in the initial phase to contain the spread of the deadly virus. Being indoors for long time during the lockdown period had made us all restless, anxious, annoyed, bored and disinterested. These feelings are very natural and shows our need for survival. Though we are worried about going out and contract the virus, this panic made us to be rational and logical that is needed at such times.
Is the COVID situation making you anxious too? Here are some tips to cope up with lockdown anxiety
1. Limit your exposure to news and media bites
Since the start of COVID-19, we are continually exposed to the extensive COVID information via news or social media or discussions with family and friends. When we are constantly exposed to such news it creates some negative effects like feelings of fear, anxiety, and stress. It is better to take measures and ensure that you keep yourself away from spreading rumours and false information. Follow news resources that are reliable and provide only the relevant and true information. It’s better you avoid watching news and read information about COVID all the time. But stay updated with the precautions and guidelines advised by the Ministry of Health and local public health authorities.
2. Involve in some activities with your family
This lockdown has given us a great opportunity to spend some quality time with our families that was kind of impossible earlier, due to our hectic & busy lifestyle. However, spending too much time together has its drawbacks too. Like anger, frustrations and irritation arise as we are restrained from going out. Try to plan some fun activities with your family that everyone can participate and get relaxed. Board games, art and crafts session, movies or even a light workout session. Children tend to get irritated and cranky since they cannot go out and play. Engage them in certain activities that can divert their mind or involve them in some or the other household activities. This will help keeping them occupied and also you will get some helping hands for your household chores.
3. Stay connected with you near & dear ones
Try to make some time during your day and connect virtually with people who are close to you. Especially, the ones who stay away from you and the elderly people or stay alone. Arrange a video call meet with your friends and social circle. Have some fun with them that will relax your mind to a great extent. Check upon the elderly and disabled people in your neighbourhood and try to offer them your help in case they need something. Such deeds will not just help the needy but also will have a positive impact on your mental health.
4. Follow meditation to relax
It is not necessary that you are occupied all the time. It’s always nice to take a break sometimes and do nothing but relax. Set aside some quiet time for yourself to do something relaxing like reading a book, going for a casual walk or taking a long shower in warm water. Practice yoga and meditation at a particular time of the day. These are very beneficial for your relaxation when you feel overwhelmed or anxious.
5. Think positive and stay positive
During this difficult time, it is very easy to lose your focus and fill your mind with negative thoughts and get stressed. Instead, try to distant away the negative thoughts and think about the positive aspects in your life. The memories that make you happy and smiling. One of the ways is keeping a gratitude journal and list down the things that you are grateful for in your life. However, ensure that you don’t overburden yourself with tasks to complete. Instead, set reasonable targets and try to achieve them. There is nothing enlightening than rewarding yourself for some small achievements.
Try these tips to cope up with lockdown anxiety and to stay away from the anxiety of lockdown and COVID situation. These tips might help you relieve the stress. Moreover, stay indoors and stay safe.
Share your thoughts if you have any tips to cope up with lockdown anxiety that helped you keep the anxiety and stress away.
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Dr Bushra Allaboutthewoman
No doubt limiting exposure to news and media reduce our stress
Sham
Yes, it is. It’s always better to consume the right news and within limit.