Managing Anxiety During Covid

The pandemic has had a major impact on all our lives. Managing anxiety during covid can be difficult and new. We are facing challenges that can cause us to be overwhelmed, stressed, or worried. We can experience anxiety surrounding contracting COVID, anxiety over uncertain times or a larger emotional toll on an already present anxiety disorder. But we are not powerless. This blog aims to help understand our anxiety and outline some useful strategies which can help coping with stress or anxiety.

UNDERSTANDING OUR ANXIETY

“When is it going to end?”, is the most common feeling surrounding the pandemic. The uncertainty surrounding how last will this last, how bad could it get and how we will continue to be impacted. Even if you are not an anxious person, it is common to feel anxiety during periods of uncertainty and change. Most importantly, you are not alone. Anxiety can be normal, and in some cases, it can be helpful such as washing our hands frequently and being more aware of keeping distance in public. However, it can be unhelpful. Learning to cope with anxiety in a healthy way can make you, the people you care for, and those around more resilient.

TIPS FOR MANAGING ANXIETY DURING COVID

STAY INFORMED & KNOW THE FACTS

It is vital to stay informed from reliable and trustworthy sources. Primarily, the Australian Government’s health alert or trusted organisations like the World Health Organization (WHO). Staying informed helps us be aware, however we can be exposed to misinformation. We need to limit how often we check for updates and step away if we start to feel overwhelmed.

FOCUS ON THINGS WE CAN CONTROL

The more anxious and stressed we become, the more common it is to see things as worse than they really are. There are many things outside our control. This can be tough to accept, and we can respond by searching the Internet or asking others for answers. Unfortunately, this can lead to a more panic and worry. We should remind ourselves of the facts, remember the coronavirus infection is usually mild.

TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF

During this trying time, taking care of our body and spirit is essential. Practicing self-care like eating heathy meals, meditating, and getting plenty of sleep can make all the difference. Additionally, maintaining social connections and communicating with friends and family prioritizes our mental health, as well as physical.

TAKE PRECUATIONS

Anxiety can he harmful if unmanaged, however anxiety can help us follow hygiene principles to limit the spread of COVID. Washing hands regularly, avoid touching nose, eyes, mouth and staying home if we feel unwell are all recommended by the World Health Organisation.

LIVING WITH OUR ANXIETY

Most importantly emotions are contagious, so turn to people who you know will support you positively. We all need advice, reassurance, or an ear to chat to during this time. Don’t tune in or talk to people who will increase your fears. Primarily, limit your media exposure especially as media coverage makes managing anxiety during Covid even harder.

If you think you may be experiencing stress, anxiety or self-isolation is getting too much, please seek support. Psychologists like us are a great option if you are looking for business hours and face-to-face support. However, the National Coronavirus Helpline on 1800 020 080 or confirming information with websites like the World Health Organization or Australia Government Department of Health can ease anxiety. Organizations like Beyond Blue are there also to manage your mental health.

Contact us

If you are experiencing anxiety and stress regarding COVID, please seek support. Psychologists are highly trained and skilled professionals in providing effective interventions for a range of health concerns, including anxiety and stress. To consult with a CBT Professionals psychologist, please download our referral form here and take it with you to your GP appointment.

REFERENCES:

Australian Psychological Society (2021). Tips of coping with coronavirus anxiety. APS Australian Psychological Society. https://psychology.org.au/getmedia/3ed423a0-6c8d-4b95-ad94-358dc0c12145/20aps-is-covid-19-coping-anxiety-p3.pdf