The pandemic has upended many of our lives. Over a few short weeks, we went from normalcy to perpetual uncertainty. In these trying times, it’s normal to feel anxious or uncertain about the future. However, does it now feel like your anxiety has intensified or feels unmanageable? If so, you aren’t alone. Many of us are struggling to come to terms with anxiety right now. Thus, you may feel alone and unsure of how to cope.
Fortunately, there are simple steps you can take to calm your anxiety and handle the effects of the global crisis.
Take a Break From the News
It’s tempting to check your news app multiple times a day. In fact, for many people, it’s the first thing they do every morning. While it’s normal to want to know what’s happening in the world, it can worsen your anxiety. After a certain point, the best thing you can do for yourself is to take a break from checking the news. Or, at the very least, limit the amount of information you’re taking in every day. It’s good to be in the know, but for your anxiety’s sake, sometimes it’s best to log off.
Embrace Mindfulness in Your Everyday Life
When you’re feeling overwhelmed, a great solution is to practice mindfulness. Mindfulness means that you pay extra attention — or are mindful — of yourself and your experiences. When you feel anxious, pay close attention to things around you. Note sights, smells, sounds, tastes, or physical sensations. By doing so, you can bring yourself back to reality and feel grounded once again.
Connect with Friends and Family Virtually
Many of us are feeling anxious because we aren’t able to see loved ones in person right now. However, with the help of technology, we are still able to connect virtually. If loneliness has you feeling anxious, consider reaching out to friends or family and setting up a routine video chat or phone call. Remember that you will see them again in person someday. For now, a virtual conversation can bring about some much-needed closeness.
Get Moving
Physical activity is good for calming anxiety for several reasons. Your brain is only able to focus on so many things at once. So, when you’re feeling anxious, exercise works as a great distraction. Also, physical activity releases endorphins in our brains, which makes us feel good and helps with anxiety. Even by adding an easy jog or yoga video to your routine, you’re helping yourself relax.
Focus on Your Goals
While the pandemic has put many things on hold, your goals don’t have to be one of them. Remember that no goal is too small, so you can check off little accomplishments every single day. Make lists of your goals, both big and small, and allow yourself to celebrate when you accomplish them. You may be anxious because your life is at a standstill right now, but there are still many things you can work towards in the meantime.
Therapy Can Help with Your Anxiety
Though the pandemic has most of us in isolation, you aren’t alone. Keep this in mind, and remember that there are resources to help with your anxiety. The best thing you can do for yourself is to seek therapy and work on your anxiety. As you find coping mechanisms, you’ll begin to feel more optimistic about your future and the future of the world. It’s normal to feel uncertain right now. It’s also normal to not want uncertainty.
As the pandemic continues, consider seeking out therapy as a way to cope with your anxiety. You can’t control the world around you, but you can control how you react to it. Consider these methods to find peace and certainty, even in times of crisis. Most of all, don’t continue to suffer alone. Read more about depression and anxiety treatment and reach out for a consultation soon.
Leave A Comment