Managing Anxiety and Fear Over Covid-19
The Covid-19 scare has many people on edge. All of its effects on society, schools, businesses, and the stock market crash can cause extreme anxiety. Non-stop coverage in the media, misinformation on social media, and the general uncertainty of where all this is going can make matters even worse.
Anxiety is a normal, protective human response. It’s when your brain scans your body and the environment for potential threats so that you can get prepared to react, if necessary. This is completely normal.
The problem is that stress and anxiety can easily spiral into panic. Panic is NOT productive.
For people who already suffer from anxiety, the loudest message coing through is that everyone is powerless to an invisible threat that has the potential to devastate individuals, families, and even entire communities. This fear can lead to irrational behaviors such as fixating on handwashing or wearing a mask when it is not necessary to do so.
On the other side of the specturm, there are those who refuse to see the virus as a threat at all. They may block it out completely, downplay the risk, and even ignore basic advice to wash hands and avoid public gatherings.
Both of these are stress-related responses, and neither is productive. Problems can arise when stress spirals out of control and leaves a person to obsess over protective measures — or ignore it altogether.
THE HEALTHIEST RESPONSE LIES SOMEWHERE IN THE MIDDLE OF THESE TWO EXTREMES.
Relax…
1. Try to stay “in the moment”. Anxiety can spiral out of control when your mind begins to predict catastrophic future events. You cannot predict the futre.
2. Stay informed but know when to turn off the news and social media. Take a break from your devices.
3. Get prepared. Dont feel silly, weak, or embarrased to follow reasonable safety advice from trusted sources. Feeling prepared gives you a sense of control.
4. Practice self-care. Sleep well, eat a balanced diet, and exercise. This will boost your immune system and decrease anxiety.
5. Reach out for help. There is no shame in reaching out to a friend, family member, or even professional help. You are not alone.