During an unprecedented global pandemic, feelings of uncertainty or lack of control are enough to give anyone a little anxiety during these unusual times. While COVID-19 can feel like a looming threat, there are several things you can do to stay safe and alleviate your own worries.
Follow the safety protocols
Whether or not your state’s governor has issued some form of a stay at home order, it’s a good idea to avoid crowds or public spaces as much as possible during this time. Even if you are feeling well enough, the less you interact with others will lessen the risk you face of contracting the virus. When you do have to go out, the Center for Disease Control recommends everyone to wear some form of facial mask, even if it’s just some form of cloth covering your nose and mouth and to regularly wash your hands and avoid touching your face.
Keep up with the news
It’s important to stay up to date on all the new information related to the crisis. Find a few reputable sources that you trust and take a little time each day to keep up with any COVID-related news. But know your limits. It’s important to be informed, but if you find yourself getting overwhelmed by all the headlines, give yourself a little break from constantly refreshing your feeds.
Make time for yourself
This extra time at home can be a great opportunity to rediscover your hobbies, get a headstart on cleaning, or enjoy a little exercise like morning walks or virtual yoga classes. Any activity that helps you relax and take your mind off things.
But don’t feel pressured to use this time to be your most productive self. Do things you enjoy, but don’t beat yourself up if you don’t cross off every small project on your to-do list. It can be just as rewarding to give yourself a lazy day on the couch if that’s what you need.
Stay connected with your friends and family
Just because you may not be able to visit your friends and family in person doesn’t mean you have to cut yourself off from communicating with the people you love. In today’s world, there are so many ways to stay connected. Set up video calls or conferences with your friends and family, or use some of your newfound extra time to make phone calls to people you haven’t spoken to in a while.
Zoom, Google Hangouts, Skype and other forms of video chatting have become an effective replacement for in-person activities. You can keep it light and fun, like starting a virtual book club with your friends or hosting a virtual watch party of your favorite shows or movies.
Checking your social media channels can also be a great way to feel connected to your community. See what others are doing during this time, and share your own tips and tricks for staying sane during your social distancing. Connecting with others, and getting the reassurance that you aren’t alone in your feelings or situations, can be one of the best ways to ease an anxious mind.
Reach out to your community
Sometimes the best way to alleviate your own worries is to focus your attention on others. During this time, there is no shortage of opportunities to lend your hand to neighbors or community members who might need a little extra help. If you have the means you can donate to local charities or food banks that are assisting with COVID-19 related outreach programs. If you’re a crafty person and like to sew, consider creating face masks for your neighbors and local healthcare professionals. And if you’re someone who needs extra help during this time, find out who your local organizations are and give them a call.
Conclusion
These are uncertain times, but the most important thing to remember is that you aren’t alone in this, and there are so many outlets to help ease your mind when you’re feeling stressed. Most important of all, if you don’t feel like you can get control over the stresses in your life, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Caring Healthcare would love to help during uncertain times in any way that we can. Contact us to learn more.
