Challenges
This pandemic is a trying time for all of us and can take its toll, especially for those struggling with anxiety, depression and other conditions.
While we continue to wash our hands, maintain social distancing, try not to cough or sneeze in public, and maintain some sort of normality. It's a struggle to remain calm and collected.
Staying and acting positively may be challenging but there are ways to deal with the stress and anxiety we may be feeling.
Tips for coping
- Slow down - if possible, don’t react immediately. Step back, take a deep breath, and collect your thoughts before you make a decision
- Stay positive - when stressful situations occur, your mind may go in a thousand directions and some of your thoughts may be negative. The more the mind wanders, the more difficult it will be for you to remain calm. Stop yourself from beginning to imagine the worst-case scenario. Instead, let go of negative thoughts and refocus your mind on something positive, no matter how small.
- Never ask “what if?” - this worst question you could ask yourself or others in the middle of a crisis begins with "what if." This line of questioning induces sheer panic and forces you to process situations that have not occurred and may never happen. “What if” questions compound the fear and escalate the problem.
- Take care of your body - make your personal health a priority, you’ll be better equipped to handle a crisis. Eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly and get plenty of sleep.
- Limit caffeine - caffeine/ energy drinks may trigger a release of adrenaline, giving you a quick burst of energy and physical strength, only to be followed by a crash marked by fatigue and irritability in some cases.
- Call a trusted friend or mentor - Use your support system and don’t be afraid to ask for advice with a stressful situation. Someone who isn’t emotionally invested in the situation will be able to see the dilemma from a different perspective and can help you arrive at potential solutions.
- Disconnect - Pull away from the situation for a while, even if only for an hour or two. When you give yourself time to process a dilemma and the surrounding emotions, you’ll be able to approach the situation with a fresh perspective.
- Develop a coping strategy - try meditation, go for a quick walk, do a few press-ups or burpees if that takes your fancy. Anything to relieve or take away the stress.
Lastly, remember to smile it's good for the mind and the soul.
