What Can I Control?
Instead of focusing on what you can't control, start asking yourself what you can control in this situation. Focusing on what isn’t within your control causes unnecessary stress and anxiety, and this can make you feel helpless and overwhelmed. One of the biggest things you can control now is to self-isolate as well as constantly sanitising and washing your hands. Ensure you follow the recommendations of health authorities and that you get enough sleep – sleep not only helps your body de-stress, but it also supports your immune system.
Take Care Of Yourself
We often forget to take care of ourselves, but this is an important thing to do during these times. Practice kindness towards yourself – allow yourself to acknowledge your anxieties and know that it’s normal. More ways to take care of yourself include engaging in activities you enjoy, being in nature (or even just a few minutes in the sun) and maintaining your routine. A routine helps you have a sense of normalcy and keeps you from spiralling.
Take care of yourself physically by ensuring you’re eating enough and eating foods that are nutritious and builds your immunity. Exercise during this time can be beneficial for both body and mind, as it doesn’t only aid in movement after eight hours of work, but it releases feel-good hormones, lowering anxiety and depression. For those who smoke, it’s advisable not to do so, as it increases your chances of developing complications should you contract the virus.
Be Informed
This might be one that seems counterproductive – isn’t information causing the anxiety? It does, but that happens when you obsess over the news and statistics. Also, a big root of information anxiety is caused by social media and fake news. To help with this, limit the amount of times you check websites and social media for updates and ensure you get your news from credible sources.
Joburg.co.za is bringing you the latest COVID-19 information to keep you informed.
Stay Connected
With technology, it’s easy to stay in contact with family and friends, even when you are in isolation. This uncertainty is tough on everyone and connecting with a friend or a loved one does indeed alleviate anxieties. Talk about how you’re keeping busy, face time for virtual dates (or for face-to-face contact), or simply just text – just be careful to not let the Coronavirus dominate all of your conversations.
Read more about maintaining your mental health during the Coronavirus pandemic
here.
Please note, we are not licensed professionals, these are merely tips to lower your anxiety and stress levels – always contact a professional.
If you need professional help at any time, contact SADAG at 011 234 4837 to schedule a counselling session or call their 24 hour helpline on 0800 456 789.
