Ways to Reduce Stress During COVID-19
There is much uncertainty and we continue to adjust to our new “normal.” It is completely understandable to feel overwhelmed right now. COVID-19 has flipped our everyday lives upside down.
Small businesses are at stake. We continue to see businesses being forced to close temporarily with no reopening date in sight. Since this will have such a significant impact, it is crucial to not only support small businesses during this stressful time but also to support each other as people.
According to the CDC, stress and anxiety about a disease can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions in adults and children. Stress during an infectious disease outbreak can include; fear for your health and the health of your loved ones, changes in sleep or eating patterns, difficulty sleeping or concentrating, worsening of chronic health problems, worsening of mental health conditions and increased use of substances.
Although, we all experience stress in different ways, keeping your calm amidst the storm can help you overcome the sudden anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic. Take a look at a few ways to help you reduce stress.
Stay Informed
Make sure every bit of information you are receiving is from a reliable source. The internet can be an easy place to gather the wrong information. Staying informed with all the correct information can help you remain calm and know what to do based on where you live and the precautions to take.
Be Proactive
Staying prepared helps us to face any challenge heading our way. Making sure you have all that you need (without hoarding), and if you must go out, making sure you are taking the right precautions can help. Try to support small businesses by ordering online or having items delivered. If you own a small business, choose the right actions by adjusting your business plans and strategies. This can help your stress level significantly during this time.
Stay Safe
Make sure you are taking all precautions that are advised to help keep you and others safe. Try to wash your hands often and for at least 20 seconds. Limit the number of times you go out in public and only go when absolutely necessary. Although this may go without saying but during a pandemic, it is essential to stay as safe as possible and away from large crowds.
Stay Connected
We are lucky enough to live in a world where connecting is easy. While many of us are stuck in social isolation, make sure you are checking in on your family, friends, and coworkers. Keeping these connections strong can help be a dependable source during these difficult times.
Keep a Routine
Make sure you are still waking up, getting dressed, and set aside specific times for breaks. It is essential to maintain a routine to keep yourself mentally and physically healthy. Following a routine makes it easier for you to adjust to the “new normal” for right now and can help you from over-stressing.
Self-care
Self-care looks different for everyone. Whether you enjoy yoga, a video game, reading, or going for a walk, be sure to take time for yourself to decompress and keep yourself from over-stressing. A mix of physical and emotional activity can help keep you feeling your best.
Take a Deep Breath
Pause when you feel overwhelmed and take a deep breath in and let a big sigh out. By doing this, you will slow your heart rate and will naturally bring you to a more relaxed state. When you take a deep breath, your brain releases endorphins that usually gives you a calming effect.
Things may not be perfect right now, but when are they ever? Both people and businesses alike are always up against a challenge. All you can do is remain calm and try your best every day. Take one step at a time and make each day intentional.
Remember that we are all a part of various communities that are here to support one another and ourselves. Do not let fear control you. We are all in this together.
Posted: Apr 09, 2020