Do you feel sad, confused, stressed, angry, or scared because of the current global crisis? If so, don’t worry because it’s normal. The COVID-19 pandemic is probably the first time for most people. It is scary to think about the deaths and infections and you would want to ensure you and your family are safe. Unfortunately, thinking too much about this whole thing will only cause you to be stressed out. Managing stress in this time of crisis is paramount to your survival. Here are some ways to cope with stress amid the coronavirus scare:
Indulge in Exercise
If you feel stressed and tense, a brisk walk in fresh air for a few minutes will help you calm down. Incorporate some physical activity into your everyday routine. Also, regular exercise will improve your sleep quality.
Avoid Substance Use
Do not deal with your emotions by smoking or taking alcohol or drugs. Alcohol serves as a depressant when taken in huge quantities and as a stimulant in smaller quantities. When stressed, focus on consuming water instead of caffeinated drinks and alcohol. Staying hydrated will let your body cope better with stress. If you feel overwhelmed, talk to a health worker or counselor.
Get Enough Sleep
Aim to maximize your relaxation before you go to sleep. Ensure your bedroom is a tranquil oasis that does not have reminders of your stressors. Don’t take any caffeinated drinks and excessive alcohol at night as they can disturb your sleep. Consider taking a warm bath or reading a book for a few minutes to relax your body and tire your eyes. Try to go to bed about the same time every day so your mind and body get used to a predictable bedtime routine.
Reduce News and Media Consumption
Constantly checking your newsfeeds and seeing bad news will activate your sympathetic nervous system and can send you into a fight-or-fight mode. That is why you must limit how often you check the news to once or twice per day.