Here’s How You Can Cope With Stress During The COVID-19 Pandemic

Published on 03 Jul 2021

Let’s be honest, we’re all worried about the near future… especially during these trying times.

Fears about COVID-19 can take an emotional toll, especially if you are diagnosed with anxiety disorder.

here’s how you can cope with stress during the covid-19 pandemic Photo via IAFOR

But please remember that you are not powerless!

We hope that these tips can help you get through this stressful time.

According to Help Guide, the uncertainty surrounding the coronavirus is the hardest thing to handle. We still don’t know how we’ll be impacted, how long it will last or how bad things might get, so it’s easy for someone to spiral out into overwhelming dread and panic.

But even in the midst of a crisis, you can still manage your anxieties and fears… Here’s how:

#1 Understanding your anxieties and fears

here’s how you can cope with stress during the covid-19 pandemic Photo via Natasha Shaukat A Clinical Psychologist In Islamabad

Fear is a normal feeling. We’re human after all!

Know that these feelings are normal and other people feel it, too! So, you are not alone. However, if the feeling of fear and anxiety is starting to get overwhelming, please know that it is okay to ask for help!

#2 Stay informed! But don’t excessively check the news.

Photo via Smithsonian Magazine

It’s great to stay informed, especially about what’s happening in your community so that you can follow advised safety precautions and do your part to curb the spread of COVID-19.

But please don’t believe everything you read online! There is a lot of misinformation going around, as well as sensationalistic coverage that only feeds into fear. So, it’s important to be discerning about what you read and watch. Always stick to reliable sources, like us! (Pssst, you can download the SYOK app here: onelink.to/SYOK)

#3 Focus on the things YOU can control

Photo via Twitter

There are so many things outside of our control right now, including how long the pandemic lasts, and that’s a tough thing to accept.

Whenever you feel like you’re getting caught up in fear of what might happen, why not try to shift your focus to things that you can control, like taking steps to reduce your own personal risk of getting infected with the COVID-19.

Wash your hands regularly (for at least 20 seconds with hand soap) or use a hand sanitizer when you’re outside.
Avoid touching your face, particularly your eyes, nose and mouth.
Staying home as much as possible and only going out when you have to get food and essential items.
Avoid crowded places.
Maintain physical distancing when you’re in public by keeping a distance of at least 6-feet away from other people
Get plenty (or just enough) sleep which helps support your immune system

#4 Stay connected, even when you’re physically far apart.

here’s how you can cope with stress during the covid-19 pandemic Photo via iStock

Physical distancing comes with its own risks. Humans are social beings, we are hardwired for connection.

Isolation and loneliness can cause anxiety and depression, which eventually impacts our physical health. That’s why it’s always important to stay connected as best we can and reach out for support whenever we need it.

#5 Take care of your body and mind

Photo via Panion

This is an extraordinarily trying time.

Remember to always take care of yourself. Getting plenty of sleep, eating healthy meals and meditating can actually help.

Here are some ways you can practice self-care:

Be kind to yourself
Maintain a routine as best you can
Take time to do activities you love
Get out in nature, if possible
Find ways to exercise
Avoid self-medicating
Get plenty of sleep

Don’t worry, be assured that for most people, the anxiety and fear are temporary and will reduce over time, especially once the virus has been contained.

We hope that this helps! Stay at home and stay safe, guys!

By: Aishah Akashah Ahadiat