Healthy Ways to Cope with COVID-19 Stress
Written by: DR. LAQUESHA ROBINSON, PSY.D.
If there is anything that 2020 has taught us was that pandemics can be stressful. With the emergence of COVID-19, literature reports have revealed several common reactions to COVID 19 that are surfacing amongst the general population. While we know that a common reaction COVID-19 has been stress, other reactions such as uncontrolled fear related to infection, anxiety, boredom, and disabling loneliness have also surfaced. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, here are some helpful tips you can do to cope with:
- Know what to do if you are sick and are concerned about COVID-19.
- Get Professional Help if Needed-Here are a few signs that you would benefit from additional professional support: You can’t shake distressful thoughts and emotions related to COVID-19; the distress starts to interfere with your everyday life. You notice others are encouraging you to seek professional help.
- Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories, including those on social media. Hearing about the pandemic repeatedly can be upsetting.
- Take care of your body. Take deep breaths, stretch, or meditate.
- Take care of your health-Try to eat healthy, well-balanced meals. Exercise regularly. Get plenty of sleep.
- Make time to unwind-Try to do some other activities you enjoy.
- Connect with others-Talk with people you trust about your concerns and how you are feeling. Connect with your community- or faith-based organizations.
Written by: DR. LAQUESHA ROBINSON, PSY.D., LICENSE MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPIST 97654