As all of us are called upon to practice social distancing, it’s more important to discuss how to manage anxiety and stress. The country is fighting an invisible enemy in COVID-19 (Coronavirus), and with school and business closings and empty shelves at the supermarkets, it’s easy to understand how stress levels are escalating daily.
There are several things that you can do to manage anxiety and stress at home, and we’ve assembled a list of the top 5 ways below.
Anxiety Affects Your Physical Body
As you consider how to manage anxiety and stress, remember that your body is in many ways your front line of defense. Don’t make the mistake of eating poorly, missing out on sleep or avoiding physical activity during any type of home quarantine.
1. It’s important to eat healthy meals on a consistent basis. Don’t skip meals, and do your best to have healthy snacks available as well. In many instances, the supermarkets have more fresh produce available than some of the processed foods. Take advantage of these healthier options.
2. It’s difficult to overstate the importance of sleep to those who wish to manage anxiety and stress during difficult times. We recommend that you follow best practices for your age group. Detailed guidelines, broken down by age, are available here.
3. And finally, you can help manage anxiety and stress by starting, or continuing an exercise routine. The process of engaging in exercise and movement not only helps you feel good, but it stimulates your body’s circulatory system.
Your Mind is a Powerful Tool
4. There is an old adage that says, “Your attitude is everything”. As you consider how to manage anxiety and stress, nothing could be more true. We encourage you to do your best to maintain a positive attitude – even when things are challenging. One of the best ways to get your attitude in a healthy place is to start a gratitude journal. Make a list of the things for which you are thankful. You might be surprised at the huge number of items that make the list… and inevitably, the list will help your thought processes.
5. Keep in mind that you cannot control everything – and accept that truth. One of the best ways to manage anxiety and stress is to release your expectations of control for circumstances that simply cannot be controlled. Focus on the things that are within your control, and you will experience a stronger sense of peace.
We Stand Ready to Help
We understand that the above list is just a drop in the bucket of things that you can do to help manage anxiety and stress. To that end, if you feel like you need someone to talk to in order to work through some of your feelings, please don’t hesitate to contact our office for an appointment.
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