In these uncertain times, you could find yourself anxious, stressed and nervous about the future. Researchers have observed that large-scale disasters such as pandemics, tend to cause an increase in mental health issues such as depression, substance abuse and behavioural disorders.
The regular news of the current COVID-19 pandemic, with its vast number of infected cases as well as casualties, is mentally affecting more people each day.
Lockdowns have been imposed by certain countries including India to contain the spread of the virus. Long durations of being indoors lead to feelings of restlessness, annoyance, financial pressures, isolation, boredom and disinterest.
These feelings are completely natural and reasonable and reflect our want for survival. That said, it is important to keep in mind that although worry is normal, panic can prevent us from being rational/logical, which are skills we need at times of such difficulty.
1. Limit your news/media exposure: We are constantly exposed to extensive information about COVID-19 through the news, social media, discussions with family and friends. Constant exposure to such news creates negative effects such as feelings of anxiety, fear and stress. Take measures to ensure that you are away from receiving and spreading rumours and false information. Follow reliable news resources. Avoid watching the news all the time but stay updated regarding the guidelines and precautions advised by the Ministry of Health and local public health authorities.
2. Plan activities with your family: The lockdown has allowed us to spend time with our families which was not possible earlier, because of our hectic lifestyle. However, spending too much time together also has its drawbacks. Irritation, anger and frustrations arise because we are restricted from going out. Try and plan fun and relaxing activities which the whole family can participate in, such as board games, movies, arts and crafts or even exercising. Children tend to get irritable since they cannot go out and play, so engage them in activities like games or involve them in household activities. This will help in keeping them occupied as well as ensure more helping hands for household chores.
3. Stay connected: Take out some time during your day to connect virtually with your near and dear ones who stay away, especially those who are elderly or alone. Catch up with your friends or social circle online through video calls. Check up on the elderly or disabled in your neighbourhood and offer to help if they need something. Such deeds will have a positive impact on your mental state.4. Relax and Meditate: You do not have to be occupied all the time. Sometimes it’s nice to take a break and do nothing but relax and breathe. Set aside some quiet time for yourself where you can do something relaxing like taking a long bath or reading a book. Practices such as yoga and meditation are very beneficial in case you feel overwhelmed or anxious.Read More: 7 Different Relaxation Techniques to Help Fight Stress
5. Focus on Positive thoughts: In these difficult times, it is very easy to focus on the negatives and get stressed. Instead, try and distance the negative thoughts and focus on the positive aspects of your life. Consider keeping a gratitude journal and list down things you are grateful for. Do not overburden yourself with tasks to do; instead, set reasonable deadlines and try to achieve them. Reward yourself for your small achievements. If you still feel increasingly stressed and overwhelmed by the current COVID-19 pandemic situation and your mental health issues go on for days without getting better, you may contact COVID-19 national psycho-social toll-free number at 080-46110007 or consult your doctor or mental health professional.
Lupin has also launched a ‘Jan Kovid’ Helpline (1800-572-6130) for the citizens of Mumbai to resolve queries about COVID-19 and help those suffering from stress/anxiety. Backed by a team of general physicians, psychologists, respiratory physicians and psychiatrists, the helpline number will offer free consultation and respond to all queries related to COVID-19. The service is available in Marathi, Hindi, Gujarati and English, and will be operational all days from 8 am – 8 pm.
Also Read: Essential Oils for Anxiety: A Research-Based Holistic ApproachIncorporate these tips in your daily life to keep anxiety at bay and tide over the lockdown period. Above all, stay indoors to protect yourself.
Also Read: How to Reduce Anxiety Immediately: Quick and Effective TechniquesDisclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
The Coronavirus spread is claiming more lives each day. The healthcare systems across the world are failing to effectively control the situation! You surely must be hearing and reading this in the news every day through news channels, newspapers and social media. Naturally, due to all this, the overwhelming emotion we feel right now is fear & anxiety.
However, don’t let these negative emotions overpower you! Let us understand our emotions better so that we are safe from the mental threat that COVID-19 poses.
India is going through a 21-day lockdown. We have all been advised to stay within our homes. We should only go out when necessary, for example, to purchase food supplies. This way, we will not risk being exposed to the virus and won’t pass it on to others either. To break the chain of transmission, lockdown and social distancing are of utmost importance.
Lockdown means you can’t go out to work, to meet friends and loved ones, to the movies, to dinners at restaurants and everything that we love doing. Initially, it might seem to be very restful. After all, don’t we all complain about not being able to spend time with our families and catching up on sleep?
But after a few days, lockdown can become tedious and you will begin to feel like a prisoner in your own home.
Keep yourself busy and draw up a packed schedule for yourself. You might be working from home. In your spare time, do some household chores such as cleaning, cooking, etc.
Let the calming effect of music and reading push out feelings of fear and confusion. And what better opportunity to binge-watch your favourite shows on the internet?
Remember your old hobby? Time to bring it back. Be it painting, strumming on the guitar, writing poems, sewing or gardening, you can pass many happy hours with your hobby and beat stress.
Follow a healthy diet. Fresh meals keep us happy and content. Drink plenty of fluids- water and juices, to keep yourself hydrated and your body working properly.
You must exercise every day. Simple home cardio exercises can keep you fit and promote the production of happiness hormones like endorphins to keep you cheerful.
If necessary, share your food and essentials with your neighbours. Sharing makes you feel good about yourself. And you will also be doing a great service to society.
If you have come down with COVID-19, you may feel stressed because-
Be prepared for the possibility that the pandemic might trigger psychological problems in people you love. Watch out for these symptoms-
Extend your full support to your loved ones if they have a mental health problem.
Also Read: Does Masturbation Cause Weight Loss? Debunking Sexual Health Misconceptions
People who had already been diagnosed with psychological issues may suffer a new set of challenges such as-
The COVID-19 pandemic has changed us. We don’t know when it will blow over. Yes, these are difficult times. But remember, you are not alone. The whole world is in it together.
Keep your spirits up, because a cheerful and optimistic outlook can be the light that guides us through this dark tunnel.
You can now assess yourself and your loved ones for Coronavirus risk at home with PharmEasy’s AI-Powered Bot – Covid Assist. Click below.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
