How to Stay Calm During This Time of Fear Over The Novel Coronavirus
By: Elizabeth Koblenz, LMSW
As the Novel Coronavirus continues to spread it is natural to start to fear what will happen to you and your loved ones. There continues to be many “unknowns” which can prompt people to research facts and information on the Coronavirus. However, while reading up on facts and information online or watching the news, the media can also heighten our anxiety regarding the Coronavirus. Because of that, it is important to recognize when we need to take a step back, check in with ourselves, and practice a coping tool. Although there are many factors that we may not be able to control, we can control how we navigate with what is going on and how to practice ways to stay calm. Here are a few tips to reduce anxiety and stay calm during the height of the Coronavirus:
1. Knowing your limits. While being knowledgeable about the Coronavirus is important, it is also important to recognize that continuously reading up on the news may cause anxiety levels to rise. Check in with yourself and take your “stress temperature”. If you find that reading the facts is causing stress and anxiety, use a coping skill if you start to feel stressed out. A coping skill can be anything from listening to some of your favorite music to taking a few deep breaths. After absorbing new information, try to take time to remove yourself from the news and do something you enjoy.
2. Speak to a professional. If you do not already participate in weekly therapy, now could be a great time to start. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy can help you implement skills and recognize some of the negative thought patterns that are causing you distress. Most therapists (including those at Upsider!) have transitioned to telehealth platforms during this time in order to continue providing support. It can be helpful to utilize this opportunity to speak to a therapist and navigate any stressors you may be feeling.
3. Find enjoyable activities. Help ease your mind, and relax. Have a favorite TV show or new book you’ve been wanting to read but haven’t had the time? Now that we are all practicing social distancing, it is important to keep yourself engaged in an activity so that you do not find yourself bored or feeling lonely. Whether you are alone, with family, or with a roommate, try to take this time to enjoy being present and capitalize on the time to indulge in a new activity. Examples of some great activities are: puzzles, starting a new book, a new tv series, or podcast.
4. Continue having a routine. It is very important to keep some normalcy in your routine. If you are working from home, try to create a new normal. Try to write down your day-to-day tasks and stick to your schedule. This will keep you productive and feeling accomplished even while staying home. If you enjoy working out, try looking at your favorite studio’s Instagram handle – many of these workout studios are now being streamed online! Keeping a routine includes anything from getting changed out of your pajamas, to practicing a daily workout routine, to even making sure you eat meals around the same time.
We understand this is a hard time and are here to help. If you are feeling stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed and are looking to talk to someone about the Novel Coronavirus, please feel free to reach out to us at (646) 494-4878. We look forward to hearing from you.