News about coronavirus is inescapable. Most communities around the world have now banned large public gatherings, and formerly jam-packed destinations such as Times Square, the Las Vegas Strip and St. Mark’s Square have become virtual ghost towns. Within the past month, major sports leagues have suspended their seasons, schools and universities have sent students home and many of this year’s most anticipated conferences and festivals are now canceled or postponed.
Amid all the daily revelations about how the spread of this pandemic has changed our lives forever, it can be easy to pick up on the anxiety in the air and begin spiraling into unproductive panic. What can you do to get hold of your emotions? Here are some facts to keep in mind if you’re having trouble coping.
You Can Control Some Elements
For all the unknowns surrounding COVID-19, there’s a lot we do know. For one thing, you can take simple steps to protect yourself, including frequently washing your hands with soap and water. Disinfect any surfaces you and your family touch often, including cellphones. Use a tissue or the crook of your elbow to cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze. Don’t hang around anyone who is sick, and if you’re feeling ill yourself, call your doctor as soon as possible.
The CDC has now also recommended the extra precaution of wearing a cloth face mask when you need to go out in public, particularly when you’re going somewhere such as a crowded supermarket, where it can be difficult to maintain six feet of distance between yourself and other shoppers. Even a DIY mask is better than having no face covering at all, since the virus travels through airborne droplets, and asymptomatic people can still infect others and make them sick.
Realism and Responsibility Can Go a Long Way
You’ll want to stay abreast of news about coronavirus, especially if the epidemic has hit your community hard. However, you should only get your information from trusted sources such as your local health department, instead of relying on online rumors. If you feel yourself getting overwhelmed or panicky, recognize when it’s time to step away from scrolling through headlines. Try to break up your news consumption with something that relaxes you, such as nature videos. At times when you feel a spike of anxiety about your need to leave the house, reassure yourself that not everyone around you is sick.
Having a Schedule Can Get You Through This
Coronavirus has upended many things we once took for granted. It can be hard to maintain your sense of normalcy, especially when you can no longer do simple things such as going out to dinner. Routine can impart a sense of security to a topsy-turvy world. Try to stick to your normal times for sleeping, mealtimes and exercise, and make sure to take time for self-care.
Other People Care About Your Well-Being
If you can’t get control of your coronavirus worries, seek help from a trusted confidante, such as a level-headed friend or family member. Reach out to your therapist, if you have one. They can teach you healthy ways to manage stress and anxiety without resorting to unproductive coping measures.
Despite rapidly evolving circumstances, one constant that remains is our desire to help people struggling with the effects of addiction on their physical, mental and emotional well-being. At Vista Taos Renewal Center, we remain available to admit you on your path to sobriety and renewed health, despite the current circumstances. Contact us for a confidential conversation to verify your insurance.
