It doesn’t take much effort to realize that the world as we know it is currently in a rapid state of panic due to the Coronavirus that’s sweeping the globe. Now, this is not a scientific article with fancy numbers and facts to make you feel better, it is simply an article all about how to cope when you feel afraid of something that you have little control over.
Whether you are someone who says, “It’s only a threat to old people” or someone who says “I need to stay home and do nothing but wash my hands”, we are in interesting times.
Going to the grocery store makes you feel like there is a huge storm or apocalypse coming. Shelves that once held cleaning supplies and toilet paper are completely empty.
The line between being prepared, and living in fear is a fine one.
Lately every morning I wake up and can’t go five minutes without hearing about the virus. As students, like myself, begin to adjust to having strictly online classes, everything seems to be different.
So here are my 5 tips for coping with fear and anxiety, and they are things I think we all could benefit from.
1. Turn off the phone.
Yes. I said it. Turn off your phone, and shut off the TV, even if it’s just for an hour. The media coverage surrounding all of this is so consuming and if you’re anything like me, you can fall into reading scientific article after article after article only to then read on Facebook that your aunt thinks the virus is truly the end of the world.
While your phone is off, grab a book you’ve been saying you’ll eventually read (we all have one) and start reading. If music is your thing, grab your guitar or ukulele and play for a while.
We seem to be so glued to our TVs waiting for the latest and greatest updates that we aren’t present at all. Stay informed, but don’t obsess.
2. Get coloring!
I know, I know. Coloring books are so 2018. But the other day while I was in line getting groceries, I slowly started to feel anxious about everything occurring. After finally making it out of the store, I saw that in the same plaza was a Micheal’s Craft Store. I went in and purchased a fun coloring book and 2 boxes of crayons.
Let me tell you, I have been loving it! I’m quite possibly the least artistic person ever, but it doesn’t matter when you’re just coloring in a picture. You’d be surprised how relaxing it can be.
3. Phone a friend
This has been another tool that has been super helpful. I’m blessed to have some super supportive people in my life, and being able to spend hours talking, or on FaceTime makes you feel like you can escape from everything for a little while.
4. Self Care baby!
Have you had a face mask sitting in your drawer you’ve been meaning to try? Now’s the perfect time. Make a hot cup of tea, do your face mask, and eat a healthy meal.
Taking care of yourself is always important, but especially when you are feeling overwhelmed.
5. Remind yourself that you can only do what you can do.
Feeling helpless and like a victim, is maybe the easiest way to start feeling out of control. Realize that even if the only thing you have control over is washing your own hands, or controlling your own environment, that you are doing all you can do.
Please don’t be afraid to grab some extra food at the store, or an extra tub of clorox wipes, but remember that we’re all in this together and that we all deserve an equal chance at protecting our own health. Only take what you need.
Stay safe & healthy and remember that although school, work, events, and travel plans may be cancelled, the one thing that is never cancelled is our ability to help each other.