In today’s guide, we’re going to sensitively look at coronavirus anxiety. While the signs and symptoms of coronavius or COVID-19 are well known, what has been missing from the extensive media coverage is the impact on mental health.
To start on a positive note, it’s uplifting to see so many people still finding ways to stay uplifted and connected in this difficult time. One striking example of this spirit of humanity is the country-wide sing-along that thousands of Italians joined in with from their windows and balconies. Despite the country being in lockdown, their community connection still stands, with songs being sung to celebrate the medical workers helping those affected!
So, while the near future may be uncertain for many reasons, there is definitely positivity to be found. As Mr Rogers says, when the news is scary, “look for the helpers“.
How is coronavirus impacting mental health?
While coronavirus is an illness that has physical affects such as a high temperature or a continuous cough, the news coverage, government sanctions (or lack of) and falling trade has certainly created a negative impact on many people’s mental health. Such mental health impacts include:
Increased stress and anxiety
Overwhelm
Feelings of fear, sadness, anger, or helplessness
This is according to research as reported by The Guardian, which goes on to highlight how many people are avoiding public transport, communal spaces, and even contact with others.
It’s important to note that no matter whether you are able to self-isolate, or your work or life requires you to take public transport or come into contact with others, your feelings of anxiety are valid, and shared by many. If you have an existing mental health problem, it’s also possible that coronavirus anxiety may affect how well you cope, or lessen the effects of existing coping mechanisms.
How to manage coronavirus anxiety
When it comes to managing how coronavirus is affecting your mental wellbeing, consider these six tips:
1. Follow best practice and OFFICIAL guidance
It goes without saying that government and health officials are the best people to trust in a situation like this. While many of us may have an opinion or different approach, trust in the advice of those whose jobs it is to know and guide the general public.
Steps you can take right now include washing your hands properly every time you get into work or home, disposing of used tissues as soon as you have used them, and using antibacterial hand gel when soap and water are unavailable.
2. Plan how you can adapt to potential situations
Whether you’re working within a business team, or working for yourself, it may be beneficial to spend some time planning how to adapt to the different scenarios that may present themselves in the coming weeks. That includes reduced number of staff, reduced hours, less projects to work on, or the need to work from home.
In the UK, the Government is providing support for those affected including medical services, individuals, and businesses. If you run a business, you may be eligible for funding, or refunds on the Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) that you may pay staff who are affected by COVID-19.
3. Identify what is inside your control (and what is not)
As Tania Diggory, Founder of Calmer, set out in her Facebook Live video on coronavirus and remote working last week, try following an exercise that highlights what is within your control, and what is outside of it. For certain situations, you may not have a choice to change them. Ground yourself by identifying this, moving forward with the areas that you can influence and shape positively instead.
4. Reduce your exposure to news and opinion on coronavirus
Coverage of the pandemic has skyrocketed to 6.7 million social media mentions per day, so it’s clear that coronavirus will be a key feature on your social media timelines and news headlines. If you find that this coverage raises your anxiety or makes you worry, try reducing how much time you spend exposed to the situation. Check out our guide to managing social media and mental health for tips on how to do this in a way that best suits you.
5. Make a list of any cancelled plans and aim to reschedule
Further anxiety may come from a fear of missing out - and this is in both a professional and personal setting. With concerts being cancelled, films being pushed back, and business meetings reduced to calls, there is a tendency to feel like opportunities are being missed. Instead, make a list of the activities you have had to put on pause, and return to these when health guidance is more certain.
6. Remind yourself of the kind acts you are doing
It’s important to remember that by reducing your time in communal spaces, washing your hands frequently, and self-isolating if necessary, you are helping to preserve the health and wellbeing of many other people. These may be friends, family, or people you don’t even know - but by acting responsibly in this time, you are doing a kind, selfless act.
General guidance for managing your mental health
While today’s guide focuses on coronavirus, there is plenty we can be doing to better support our mental health. At Calmer, our aim is to empower entrepreneurs, freelancers and business teams to nurture good mental health and wellbeing while working successfully.
If you would like more support around stress and anxiety, join the Calmer Community for a 10 day free trial, our membership platform providing plenty of wellbeing resources designed to educate and support your mental health.
If you are experiencing burnout, we also recommend taking our free, award-winning course, The Reignite Project, sharing a range of burnout-prevention strategies.
And if you would like to hear more from Calmer’s Founder, Tania, make sure to join our Facebook Group!