9 tips for managing anxiety during COVID-19

Anxiety might assist us avoid danger in certain situations; it's how we've developed to keep ourselves safe. Even if you are not a naturally nervous person, anxiety is prevalent at times of transition or uncertainty.

You're not alone if you're worried or anxious during this time. Anxiety is normal, and it might even be beneficial in some instances. People who are worried, for example, are more inclined to perform things that help keep the virus at bay, such as frequent handwashing, according to evidence from previous pandemics.

Anxiety, on the other hand, might be counterproductive at times. If you're starting to feel overwhelmed, here are some practical methods to keep your anxiety at bay.

1. Put your worried energy to good use: learn, plan, and prepare

When situations feel out of our control and we believe we lack the capacity, skills, or ability to deal, we often feel nervous. Anxiety makes us imagine the worst-case scenarios in vivid and terrifying detail.

Instead of worrying, try to concentrate on what you can manage. Collect information on COVID-19 from reputable sources. Follow the recommendations of the authorities and prepare a plan for what you and your family will do if you are placed in isolation or quarantine.

2. Limit or avoid media and misinformation that isn't beneficial

Constant exposure to worrisome, anxiety-inducing news convinces us that there is cause for concern, perpetuating myths, rumors, disinformation, doubt, and anxiety. The more we read and hear about it, the more terrifying it becomes, and the fewer opportunities we have to divert our attention and do things that will help us forget about it.

Although it may be tempting to stay informed or difficult to avoid, limiting your exposure to coronavirus-related media, news, and social media will assist to calm the worry.

3. Reduce or eliminate the behaviors that contribute to your anxiety

Certain behaviors, when repeated regularly, might exacerbate health anxiety and germ phobia. Putting too much emphasis on physical symptoms and depending on "Dr Google" might lead to anxious thoughts and fear.

It's possible to reduce disproportionate sensations of worry by becoming aware of these behaviors, understanding how they make you feel, and replacing them with more beneficial coping tactics.

4. Keep your attention on the present moment, taking each day one at a time

Concentrate on the present moment rather than the past or the future. Take one day at a time and live in the moment.

5. Recognize negative ideas and don't give them too much weight

It doesn't always follow that what we're thinking is correct. Take a step back when you catch yourself worrying excessively and attempt to let issues pass you by without focusing on them too much.

6. Take care of your body

Get enough sleep, exercise, eat a healthy diet, and avoid smoking, alcohol, and narcotics. This will help to safeguard your mental health as well as your immune system.

7. Maintain contact with people

When we share our fears with others and connect with other individuals who are supportive, it can make a great difference. To feel less alienated and lonely, try to maintain contact with supporting individuals in your life. You may need to experiment with new ways of connecting that you haven't tried previously.

8. Be helpful, kind, and sympathetic to others

It is possible that helping others will make us feel better. We're all in this together, so let's do our best to treat each other with kindness and compassion.

9. Take a deep breath in

Take a few slow, deep breaths to assist you relax when you're feeling overwhelmed. You could also try other things that help you relax (such as going for a walk or listening to music).

Importantly, rest assured that the fear will pass for the majority of individuals and will fade with time, especially once the infection has been confined.