The gap between those who can access and use digital technology and those who can't
If you are staying home, simple things like changing out of your pajamas in the morning, eating at regular times, and making small to-do lists of achievable goals for the day help create a sense of normality and productivity.
The spread of fake news is sure to send you into a panic and it’s also extremely harmful in the bigger picture. Get your information from official, reliable sources, and limit yourself to 30 minutes per day.
Just as it’s beneficial to stay updated, it’s also necessary to know when you should put the news away.
If your body isn’t healthy, your mind won’t be, and vice versa. A healthy, balanced diet can vastly improve your mood!
You have to get moving to release the stress built up in your body and feel those good endorphins. Set up a home gym, or just dance to music every day.
Many people are stressing themselves out by thinking that they have to be using this extra time to be extremely productive, like write a novel, or start a side business. But remember you are coping and it’s completely acceptable and valuable to simply exist.
Being stuck in your home can feel claustrophobic, but by separating spaces for certain activities—like eating only at the kitchen table, watching TV only on the couch—can make the space feel larger and give you the stabilizing feeling of structure.
Drown out the fear with gratitude and appreciation for what currently exists in your life and the opportunities you have.
This is easier said than done when you’re at home all day and feeling restless, but a steady sleep structure will fortify your mental health.
There are various avenues to stay connected, and whether you video chat, talk on the phone, send messages, or play online games, these are valuable ways to weather the storm.
Of course, modify them to your circumstances. If you usually do laundry on Sundays or have movie Fridays or yoga Wednesdays, maintain this schedule to give you a feeling of normalcy.
One of the surest ways to feel better is to make others feel better. If you’re in a position to do so, lend a helping hand to neighbors or your community. It could be as small as organizing a community applause for caregivers.
Paint a picture, sketch some drawings, write a short story—all of these are an enriching indulgence, an important form of expression, and the cheapest kind of therapy!
Dance to it, learn a TikTok routine, have it in the background while you cook—music can lift your mood like magic and keep you moving.
Get away from screens in general, but specifically social media because in this trying time the last thing you need piled on top of it all is the endless comparison (and search for validation) to others.
For example, preparing your medical supplies is vital. The anxiety that comes from running out of prescriptions or not having a thermometer if you think you feel feverish are easily remedied by being proactive.
Anxiety thrives when you feel helpless, but instead of focusing on the things out of your control like how others behave, choose to focus on what’s in your reach, where you put your energy, and how you handle your feelings.
A glass of red wine is fine, and sometimes it may even feel necessary to get you through the week, but stay away from excessive drinking, as it affects your health, sleep, mood, and immune system—all of which worsen anxiety.
Cleaning is one of the things in your control, and it’s also a great way to release some energy while ensuring you have a tidy home, which eliminates another reason for you to feel anxiety. A clear home can make it easier to have a clear mind.
A failure of communication fuels anxiety, and talking about your feelings is one of the best ways to let them go. It’s as simple as that. Tell someone about how you’re feeling, and listen to others.
Many licensed psychologists are offering telehealth options over voice and video chat platforms, which is the best option if your anxiety is reaching unmanageable levels.
If you start thinking about how many days you’ve been in quarantine and how many days might be left, you’ll throw yourself into a mental breakdown. When you take things day by day, it doesn’t seem so bad.
It’s all too easy to fall down a hole of negativity, but when you start to worry about the future, try to think about the next good thing in your near future, like talking to a loved one, eating a delicious meal, or watching a TV show you like.
When you’re overwhelmed with bad news flooding in through news outlets, it’s important to remind yourself of the good things in the world.
Take a look at these heartwarming photos to restore your faith in humanity.
In this time of pandemic and isolation, the psychological impact is not to be underestimated—even for those who have never experienced mental illness. Anxiety levels are on the rise because it’s increasingly harder not to worry or feel uneasy about the uncertain outcomes. You might be feeling like you’re not yourself, or maybe you’re frightened of being infected, worried about your loved ones, bored out of your mind, or frustrated at everything. You’re not alone!
Fortunately, doctors and government organizations are sharing various tips to help us manage our anxiety in quarantine. Click through to see 30 easy tips you can follow.
30 simple tips to reduce anxiety during the pandemic
It's okay to not feel okay, but here's how to feel better
LIFESTYLE Self-isolation
In this time of pandemic and isolation, the psychological impact is not to be underestimated—even for those who have never experienced mental illness. Anxiety levels are on the rise because it’s increasingly harder not to worry or feel uneasy about the uncertain outcomes. You might be feeling like you’re not yourself, or maybe you’re frightened of being infected, worried about your loved ones, bored out of your mind, or frustrated at everything. You’re not alone!
Fortunately, doctors and government organizations are sharing various tips to help us manage our anxiety in quarantine. Click through to see 30 easy tips you can follow.