Despite the constant reminders that ‘we’re all this together’, we know that honest conversations about fears and anxieties are difficult to talk about. BUT treat this article as your friend, cry if you want to, laugh, or share your troubles. This is a safe space.
Have a break from the world falling apart. We bring you a list of things you can do to cope with this new normal.
Balancing social media
This whole negative news all the time, and then not able to see anybody really adds up to the stress. Although social media managed us to stay connected with friends, however, if that’s the number one source of your anxiety try to limit yourself from using it for at least a few hours a day.
Better if you delete those apps that trigger your anxiety and try to focus your energy on something else you’re passionate about.
Finding creative outlets
Having a creative outlet has been essential. Noticed as COVID restrictions came into place a lot of people really tried something new, be it baking, planting, or learning how to play music.
Try to exercise and focus on doing creative projects, stuff that gives you purpose.
Self-improvement
COVID-19 is the catalyst for an “existential crisis” and some serious second-guessing about whether yourself.
Try to pour time and energy into a multitude of things to find purpose; definitely, re-center your focus on self-improvement because you’ll somehow get through this. You are the one you could rely on even when everything else was shut down or isolated.
Focusing on the present
Adjusting to the new normal was pretty difficult in a pandemic life, but we all know every day we want to just go back to normal.
There’s a lot figuring out on how to manage anxiety when so many of our normal coping strategies were off-limits. Some days, try to deal and manage your mental health where just don’t leave the bed, and don’t speak to anyone.
It sometimes helps to fight your own demons, reminding them that you are the captain of your own ship. Trying to focus on the present and not to think too much about the future helps, as does create a routine.
The most important thing she has learned is to be gentle with yourself. Just being able to get through the day is what’s most important.
Seeking mental health support
The outbreak of the coronavirus has impacted people in varying ways on an international scale. It is understandable that during times like this, people may be feeling afraid, worried, anxious.
Going into a period of social distancing, self-isolation or quarantine may feel daunting or overwhelming, and can contribute to feelings of helplessness and fear.
Try to see this time as unique and different, not necessarily bad, even if it something you didn’t necessarily choose. Think of creative ways to stay connected with others, including social media, email, and phone.
Create a routine that prioritises things you enjoy and even things you have been meaning to do but haven’t had enough time. Read that book, watch that show, take up that new hobby.
Seek professional help will not only help you but encourage other people who’re experiencing the same issue to get the help they need.
The biggest way COVID has changed us as a person is through opening our eyes to the little things we’re lucky to have.
If you need someone to talk to, call:
Kids Helpline – 1800 551 800
MensLine Australia – 1300 789 978
Suicide Call Back Service – 1300 659 467
Beyond Blue – 1300 22 46 36
A version of this article was originally published on https://www.abc.net.au/news/health/2020-07-12/how-young-people-cope-and-adapt-during-coronavirus-pandemic/12437896 and https://www.lifeline.org.au/get-help/information-and-support/covid-19/
