Coping in the Midst of a Pandemic

beach, birds, dawn

Having to live in a world of such uncertainty can weigh heavily on anyone. Since the pandemic has hit, I personally have experienced a range of emotions running rampant through me. From intense anxiety (will I or someone I know get COVID-19), to feelings of sadness (not being able to see my family face to face) to feelings of hopelessness (will they ever find a cure to COVID-19), just to name a few. How does one manage all of these emotions? I have found it helpful to channel my energy into other things. Below are 5 ways to cope with Pandemic-Induced Stress.

1. Finding alternative methods of communicating with others
It is hard to social distance from family and friends.  You can still reach out with them through phone calls, text messaging and using video conferencing to “see” them. 
                    – Checking in with others on a regular basis will help to reduce feelings of isolation and anxiety. It
will help you feel reassured, therefore leading to reduce feelings of stress.

2. Taking care of yourself physically
Being stuck in the house allows you to create many unhealthy habits (i.e. sleeping in late, eating lots of unhealthy snacks, watching too much television.  
                    – Set a realistic routine for yourself that includes a regular pattern for sleep . 
                    – Make health choices when selecting foods to eat.  Do not over indulge in the junk food
                    – Go for a walk, turn on some music and dance, or toss the ball back and forth with your                                         children.  Just stay active!

3. Engage in self care activities.
It’s important that you take time out for yourself to decompress and rejuvenate.  Take a long shower, cry, journal, do a puzzle, learn a new hobby.

4. Unplug!
There is so much chaos and turmoil in the world right now.  Every time you turn the television on or look at social media you are bombarded with so much grief, loss and sickness.  Take a moment and make the decision to not listen, read or watch electronic communication or in other words, unplug, for at least an hour to help you gain peace of mind. 

5. Take care of your emotional well-being
Right now, you may find yourself overwhelm with many emotions.  Some days you may find it easy to work through the emotions on your own and other days you may find yourself on an emotional roller coaster.  Contact us today to schedule a time to talk with one our experienced mental health therapist, We are ready to join you in your journey of restoring your inner peace. 

~APOM Bloggers – Your Partners in Restoring Your Inner Peace
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