Coronavirus Anxiety? 

Worldwide news headlines are talking about COVID-19. It tackles how it causes the shutting down of some cities and even the entire countries.

 

As the number of COVID-19 cases increases worldwide, the same goes for the anxieties that surround it. Many people, including you, might be wondering what is going to happen next. We don’t know when this worldwide pandemic will end. This uncertainty causes fear and panic.

 

Dr Joseph McGuire of Johns Hopkins Medicine stated that “Knowledge and preparation can help reduce feelings of panic”. In this article, we will give you these two important things (knowledge and preparation) to handle coronavirus anxiety.

 

1. Limit yourself from news about coronavirus.

 

Make sure you are getting information from reliable sources. Don’t trust right away what you can see and read on Facebook, WhatsApp groups, or other types of social media. The most reliable sources you can visit are:

 

• the Centers for Disease Control at https://www.cdc.gov/
• WHO websites

 

Additionally, you must be mindful of sharing information to avoid making unnecessary panic.

 

2. Focus on the things you can control.

 

There are things that you can’t control. Such as how long this frightening time will last, how other people behave, and what will happen to the community.

You can lower the risk by doing these things:

• Wash your hands for at least 30 seconds with warm water and soap.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Stay at home.
• Observe social distancing
• Sleep well
• Drink plenty of water
• Exercise
• Obey health authorities advice

 

 

3. Stay connected with your friends, families, and loved ones.

 

Social distancing is still enforced in many places worldwide, although some restrictions are being eased. As social beings, this isn’t easy.

 

Being isolated can be difficult for your mental health. With the use of technology, you can stay connected to your family and friends. You can set up calls with friends or family. Many people group-call and take part in a quiz together!

 

Also, consider muting ‘anxiety-causing’ keywords from your social media.

 

4. Take care of yourself.

 

Go easy on yourself. Remember, you’re not alone.

 

Maintain your regular schedule such as waking up at the same time, working, eating well and exercising. Make sure you also leave time to relax.

 

If you feel like you have a lot of spare time, practice an old hobby — or start a new one! You can bake, cook, watch movies and so much more.

 

If you’re missing the gym, use online exercise videos for routines. Many different videos don’t use any kind of equipment. There are even yoga and meditation routines which are great for the mind, body and soul.

 

Avoid drinking too much alcohol while in quarantine, as this can encourage bad habits and feeling a little downbeat.

 

It can be quite overwhelming but remember that we are all in this together. You are not alone.