19 COPING Tips for managing the stress of COVID-19
Here are some things you can do and keep in mind to help you cope during these challenging times, and some ideas for how you can use your time in a positive way.
First, know that it is okay to be scared, stressed or overwhelmed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Stress and anxiety are normal responses to major change, threat and uncertainty. Allow yourself to have your feelings, but make sure to take some actions to help reduce the stress.
Don’t start your day with COVID-19 news. It can wait.
If you’re staying home, create a structure to your days. Decide on what you will do and when.
Schedule time to read/watch the news from reliable sources. Perhaps not more than 1 hour in your entire day. You need to be informed, but it’s not helpful to be overexposed to the news.
If it’s not something you’re used to doing, this may be a good time to start practicing it. Meditation is a helpful way to stay present and grounded during times of stress and anxiety.
Prepare healthy meals (try to avoid watching the news while you eat).
Do something that helps you feel in control, like taking actions to boost your immune system (good sleep, healthy eating, exercise, avoiding smoking and drinking) or doing something to help others, like grocery shopping for an elderly neighbor.
Connect with old friends via phone or video-calling. Check in on them, and catch up about each other’s lives before the COVID-19 outbreak.
If you live with your family and are isolating together, this is a chance to connect and have fun.
If you’re separated from your family, try to stay in touch via phone or video-calling regularly. Telling people you love what you appreciate about them can help you feel closer, even when you’re physically apart.
Stay physically active. Go for a walk in a non-crowded place if you can. Being out in nature is a great outlet for stress.
Learn something new or pick up an old hobby again. If you’re home a lot, it’s an opportunity to learn and create.
Read a book. Check out free digital libraries.
Listen to music or take a virtual tour of National Parks, Museums, etc. Even brief moments of distraction from COVID-19 worries can help.
Allow yourself to have fun. Humour and joy are good for mental health.
Kindness towards others, Self-compassion (kindness towards yourself) and Gratitude have been shown to promote well-being. It’s always a good time to practice all three.
Look for the Good: the heart-warming gestures, the uplifting stories.
Don’t finish your day with COVID-19 News. Practice sleep hygiene and choose something that is soothing (that works for you) before bedtime. Try to get 7-8 hours of sleep every night. It helps reduce stress and strengthens your immune system.
Hang in there! This too shall pass.
*If coping strategies are not working, or if you’re struggling with even bigger issues (i.e. job loss, prior mental health challenges), call The Edmonds UPCC to talk to a Clinical Counsellor.
Edmonds Urgent & Primary Care Centre: (604) 519-3787