How to Cope With Anxiety Caused by Coronavirus
Despite everything you may have read on the internet, nothing has been proven to cure or prevent COVID-19. The best way to protect yourself is to practice social distancing and not come into contact with someone that has been infected. You should also make sure that you get enough sleep, exercise daily, eat a healthy diet, and find ways to reduce stress. For the latest on COVID-19, we encourage you to use online resources from the CDC, WHO, and local public health departments.
The COVID-19 pandemic 1 has been a whirlwind of emotions for many people. Some of us have had close friends or family members suffer from the illness, while others have lost their jobs or had their finances thrown into a state of uncertainty. No matter your current situation, there is a lot of anxiety to be felt with this pandemic. To help, here are some tips that can help to reduce the stress of not knowing what's around the corner.
1. Meditate
Most people shrug at the idea of meditating. Many of us struggle to sit still for more than 5 minutes without checking our phones. Like anything, meditation takes practice. The mind can improve by 'working out' your brain. We recommend sitting with your thoughts and your eyes closed. Make sure not to have any distractions, like the TV, on while meditating. With time, you should learn to enjoy this time for yourself.
2. Take a virtual 'vacation' from social media
Much like the news, social media can be a hotbed of anxiety during a pandemic. While you don’t need to completely swear off social media entirely, definitely consider limiting your daily intake. If you have been following a particular account that has been going on a major posting spree and it’s causing you anxiety, don’t feel guilty about unfollowing them for a little bit – even if you know them well. At the end of the day, it’s your mental wellbeing that matters most. Likewise, if pictures of adorable puppies bring you plenty of joy, then feel free to binge on the cuteness – whatever helps you cope.
3. Try ashwagandha
Ashwagandha has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years as a traditional treatment for mental and physical stress and burnout2. Ashwagandha is considered adaptogenic and can help to balance hormones that are associated with anxiety and regulate your relaxation response. If you are feeling fatigued, it can give you energy, but if you're frazzled, it will suppress those hormones that overstimulate when you are feeling stressed. It is a depressant for the central nervous system, allowing you to relax and get your much-needed sleep.
References:
1. 10 Ways to Ease Your Coronavirus Anxiety
2. Ashwaganda for Anxiety, Jan 08, 2014 3.