The Real Reasons Why You Feel Stressed During the Pandemic
With everything currently going on in the world involving the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s no wonder that you may be feeling anxious, scared, and stressed. A lot of things have changed, and we are all working toward accepting a new “normal.”
With the closures of businesses, restaurants, and many public and private places, we are all impacted by this pandemic each and every day.
With no escape to these many changes, we are all forced to adjust our lifestyle. This change can cause negative emotions to arise.
It’s worth noting that even before the COVID-19 crisis, cases of anxiety and depression were on the rise.
The Increase of Stress and Anxiety
In recent years, health officials have seen a rise in depression and anxiety among the general population. For many, the changes caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, along with personal uncertainty, are causing these feelings to become amplified.
With constant changes in the economy, difficulties finding employment, and handling day-to-day activities, expenses, and challenges, it’s no wonder we’re all feeling more stressed.
Because of all the changes that are occurring, you may often feel overwhelmed and out of control, which makes these feelings even more prominent.
Here are a few reasons that you might be feeling more stress and anxiety:
Lack of Control
Whether it regards changes in work and the inability to leave the house as you please, or if you just simply feel overwhelmed and helpless because of the situation (or let’s face it, both), you are not alone. Many people are feeling the same way, wondering when the pandemic will begin to level off, and communities will go back to normal.
It is normal to feel a bit out of control right now. Take a deep breath and a step back. Instead of thinking about everything you can’t control right now, think about the things you can control.
Technology Concerns
There is so much emphasis on technology, social media, and constant news reporting that it can make it stressful and difficult to “shut off.” These things can reach toxic levels, causing stress to build up.
Be sure you are giving yourself a break and limit your time watching the news and browsing social media as much as you can. Set aside a limited amount of time where you let yourself catch up, and then put it out of mind.
Infrequent Contact with Others
As human beings, we are social by nature. We live in a world where we are used to interacting with peers, friends, and families on a regular basis, so when we are told to stay away from those people and go into isolation, it can be emotionally distressing.
If you are missing the social aspect of life, try other ways to stay in contact, such as through phone calls or video chats.
Less Physical Activity
With so many people still under some form of stay-at-home orders, it has been more challenging to stay active. Gym closures have made it even more difficult for many people to get the right amount of physical activity, and this can take its toll on both physical and mental health.
Do your best to keep moving. Start a workout routine in your living room, or if you can safely retain social distancing guidelines, go for a walk.
Spending More Time Indoors
Since the pandemic began, more and more people are being told to stay in their homes and not to go out unless absolutely necessary. Because of this, people are spending more time inside, and not getting enough fresh air and sunlight. This can cause depression, stress, and anxiety.
If you can’t leave your home, spend some time on your patio if you have one, or open your windows to get in some sunlight and a bit of fresh air.
Fear of Economic Changes
The economy has changed a lot over the past few months, and that has a lot of people worried about the future of not only our country but the entire world. This is a normal reason to feel anxious and stressed, as it can lead to feeling out of control.
Work Disruptions
People who are used to going to work and school every day may find their everyday lives disrupted by closures of both schools and workplaces. Most people are feeling a disruption in their normal routine, with either having to adjust to working remotely, adapting to the risks of being an essential worker, or feeling the financial stress of being laid off.
For most, these changes also mean a change in social interactions and the inability to find a balance between work and home life.
Lack of Routine
Most people benefit from a daily routine, and when that is disrupted, it can cause feelings of stress and anxiety. A routine helps us feel like we are in control, and when that routine is taken away, we can easily feel overwhelmed.
Creating a daily routine at home can help relieve stress and anxiety while also giving you some control back.
What to Do About Stress During a Pandemic
During a pandemic, it is truly difficult to feel in charge or at ease. However, there are some things you can do to help yourself through these trying times.
Here is a list of ways that you can help yourself combat stress and anxiety while you are staying at home:
- Get proper nutrition
- Rest
- Find a new hobby
- Learn a new language
- Deep clean your home
- Meditate
- Take a walk
- Make time for yourself
- Take a deep breath and know that you are not alone in feeling in this way
- Keep a journal to track your feelings
- Video call friends and family
- Begin new on self-care routines
While a pandemic can be a truly trying time for everyone, it is possible to maintain your mental health and get through it with a positive outlook.
To help get through the pandemic, you can also start making plans for the future. Although our doors may be closed, we are still open for virtual consultations and pre-booking appointments. Plus, receive 20% off your appointment when you pre-book with us today. Contact us to get started with your virtual consultation.