Coping with Coronavirus Anxiety

The spread of Coronavirus is not only sowing sickness and death. But it is also sending shocks of panic and anxiety across the globe. In such a situation, we also need to care for our mental health. So, here are a few tips that will help you in coping with the panic of coronavirus. 

In this situation of COVID-19 crisis, we anticipate some anxiety among the people. The anxiety that pushes people to take proper precautions is good. But if this anxiety turns into coronavirus panic then there is a problem!

In a state of panic, people tend to make more mistakes. They overstock products like sanitizers and masks creating a scarcity. Move cities risking lives. Make unnecessary doctor visits adding on to the burden. So, it is very necessary to take precautions without panicking.

Quick updates on Coronavirus!

Last Tuesday, the WHO declared the spread of coronavirus as a pandemic.

The highest cases of coronavirus in India are marked in Maharashtra (49). 

On 19^th March, the number of coronavirus cases rose to 170 and the death toll reached 3.

Karnataka has identified 13 positive cases, coronavirus patients.

Mumbai, Delhi and Bangalore have shut down.

Malls, halls, schools and public gatherings are curbed in many cities.

India is in stage II of this pandemic and proper precautions are an absolute necessity to prevent it from reaching stage III.

Also Read: Cure Corona with curcumin

Analyzing the reasons for Panic

Before discussing “Coping with the panic of Coronavirus” let’s first analyze the reasons that are triggering this panic.

If panic is valid or absurd!

Well, it’s true that we are in a situation of crisis.

US, Italy, UAE, Iran, China, top countries are succumbing to coronavirus.

In fact, recent news updates from Italy came as a big shock. Italy declared that patients above the age of 80 or suffering from chronic ailments might not receive intensive care. As the country is overwhelmed by the cases of coronavirus.

Here are a few reasons why people are panicking:

1. Covid-19 is highly transmissible. It is more easily spread and more deadly than flu.
2. The fatality rate of coronavirus is 20-30 times higher than flu. 
3. No one is immune against coronavirus as there are no cases of previous exposure or vaccination. 

Also Read – Unlock 1.0 – Things You Must Know

Coping with the panic of Coronavirus

In this situation, proper precautions make all the difference. So, try to keep your calm. Practice preventive measures. Avoid negative news. And stop refreshing your updates every second!

Here are a few healthy practices to hold your sanity amidst the coronavirus insanity:

1. Snooze social media

Whatever be your source of information, make sure to snooze it for some time.

Social media often share exaggerated or false information. So, stick to one reliable source and check it once in the day at a particular time!

And if you are already anxious then you must go for a complete news detox! Because the more anxious you are the more your mind will seek the feed!

Talking, discussing and debating about coronavirus will not only eat up your time. But it will also trigger panic in your mind.

So, practice the precautions. And engage your mind in productive things. Like read a book or learn to cook. Take up some lessons online and sculpt your skills.

2. Stop googling your symptoms

Google is not a doctor! And it’s definitely not your friend!

Dr. Google is indeed a foe for those with health anxiety. 

There are many ambiguous articles. Irrational data. Scary blogs. Marketing propaganda.

Hence, it is very essential to protect yourself from the trap of fear. And rely on information that’s real!

So, stop searching for symptoms and over-analyzing your condition. If there is a reason for your doubt then visit your nearest doctor!

3. Practice precautions to counter panic

One way to calm your anxiety is security. 

Practice proper precautions. Follow the guidelines. Practice isolation. Wash your hands. Keep your hygiene at the peak. 

Don’t shy away or feel silly while preaching the precautions. There is a time to be brave. And this is not that time!

Coronavirus is invisible and right now invincible. So, act sincerely and save a life!

4. Meditation and Yoga for corona

Yoga and Meditation are some of the best ancient tools to manage anxiety and panic. 

It shuts your brain. Connects your mind and body. Enhances your rational things.

It is one sure-shot way of coping with the panic of Coronavirus.

In fact, studies have also shown that regular meditation and yoga can boost your immunity.

Meditation shields your mind against negative thoughts. While yoga enhances your body balance. Both help in calming the feelings of fear, anxiety and panic.

Even the leading Harvard Medical School in the U.S concurs with its power. It recommended yoga, meditation and breathing exercises to fight coronavirus anxiety.

5. Exercise to excuse corona

We all know that exercise improves metabolism and boosts immunity.

But exercise also makes you happy. Of course, a slim waistline is one reason to be happy. But exercise stimulates the release of happy hormones. It releases endorphins that trigger a positive feeling. 

In this time of crisis, it is essential to see the bright light. To stay calm and to embrace happiness in small thrills.

Enjoy your time with your family. Focus on fitness. Eat healthy home-cooked foods. Sleep more. Breathe free. Indulge in happiness.

6. Breathe free to be corona free

Breathing exercises are very effective in calming stress, anxiety and panic.

Pranayama is a tried and tested way to relax.

Hold your breath to beat your stress! Stress deteriorates your immunity. It further helps in curbing sleep disorder. In fact, yogic breathing acts as a panacea for insomnia.

The feeling of depression, anxiety and stress are at peak in this stage of coronavirus. The best tool for coping with the panic of coronavirus anxiety is Pranayama. 

Practice pranayama in the morning. Breathe in, hold it and then breathe out.

Pranayama also has ample of other benefits too. It boosts memory. Increases concentration. Improves heart health. And pranayama is a sure cure for your anxiety!

7. Seek help!

It is absolutely okay to seek help! Feeling scared, anxious or stressed are natural human responses. Try to counteract such feelings with thoughts of positivity. But even if the said tactics don’t work then go and get counselling!

Minimize Your Risk 

1. Keep washing your hands. Wash it for at least 20 seconds. Most people wash their hands for less than 20 seconds even after using the washroom! But its time to change that now!
2. Swipe an alcohol-based sanitizer before touching your face, mouth or nose!
3. Make sure to cover your mouth while sneezing or coughing.
4. Stay at home and avoid going out if not absolutely necessary.
5. Maintain proper hygiene and cleanliness.
6. Encourage social distancing and avoid contact with sick people.
7. You don’t need a facemask if you are not sick.

Conclusion: Coping with the panic of coronavirus

Coronavirus is a serious matter. It’s not a joke! But that does not mean you need to panic. Your sincere and serious efforts of precautions are enough to keep you safe!

Further, look at the plus side!

Over 96% of people who have contracted coronavirus have recovered from the virus. So, there is a fair chance that you too can fight back naturally even if there is no vaccine against it!

Follow the precautions and keep your immune strong. That’s all you need to do!