According to the World Health Organization, the pandemic has turned close to four million lives into memories today. Suffering from any loss is painful. But when the losses are of the magnitude of this pandemic, we easily slip into mass trauma.
It’s important to note that trauma is a subtle condition that many people don’t notice. It develops from the long-term effects of events that put you in a stressful situation. Just consider the adverse economic, social, and even mental health impacts of the pandemic.
We’ll still grapple with these effects years after the pandemic ends. So what coping strategies should you develop to get through the pandemic anxiety? Read on.
1. Take Breaks From New Stories
Staying informed is commendable, but do not overdo it because too much of anything is destructive. Limit the number of hours or times you read about news from the pandemic.
Your mind subconsciously records everything that you read or listen to. Feeding it with too much news about the Covid-19 situation increases your chances of developing pandemic anxiety.
2. Caring for Yourself Manages the Trauma
Your confidence and general well-being get a boost whenever you care for yourself in everyday situations. Now is the time more than ever to step up your self-care efforts. Not only will it boost your mood, but you’ll also be healthier after the pandemic.
Remember that self-care entails many things, from getting enough sleep, exercising to adopting healthy nutrition habits. Make sure that you balance all the aspects to maximize the coping strategies.
3. Take Breath Practices to Reduce Stress Arousal
Managing your stress levels during this time is critical to enjoying better mental health. Breath practices are one of the easiest and convenient ways to reduce your stress arousal. There a couple of breathing techniques to choose from depending on your interest.
Always know that exhaling more than you inhale calms the body well. This might be handy when you find yourself experiencing bouts of unexpected stress.
4. Share Your Feelings
Sharing your feelings with people who have your best interest will make you feel safer. Face-to-face interaction is preferable because it gives you the chance to form genuine connections. However, you can always rely on phones and social media platforms when face to face isn’t possible.
5. Practice Kindness and Compassion
The majority of the people are going through a hard time right now. Try to be extra compassionate to them and to yourself too. We attract the feelings that we irradiate.
Don’t blame yourself if nothing seems to be working out right now. You are a victim of what’s happening right now. You should always talk to an expert for more info if you find it difficult to be kind to yourself.
You Can Overcome it!
You are not alone during these trying times. If you feel that way, there are coping strategies that can help you deal with the trauma. Contact a healthcare provider if you notice that the anxiety gets in the way of your life for several days despite practicing the coping mechanisms.
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