How to keep coronavirus fears from affecting your mental health

It's natural to feel anxious or concerned about the COVID-19 pandemic, but excessive fear and anxiety can negatively impact your mental health. Here are some tips to help you manage your coronavirus fears and maintain good mental health:

1. Stay informed, but don't obsess: Keep up-to-date with reliable sources of information, such as the World Health Organization (WHO), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), or your local health authority. Limit your exposure to sensational or inaccurate news reports.
2. Practice social distancing, but don't isolate: Follow guidelines for social distancing, such as avoiding crowded areas and maintaining a safe distance from others. However, make an effort to stay connected with friends and family through phone calls, video chats, or online activities.
3. Focus on what you can control: Instead of worrying about things outside of your control, focus on the actions you can take to protect yourself and others, such as washing your hands frequently, wearing a mask, and getting vaccinated.
4. Take care of your physical health: Regular exercise, healthy eating, and sufficient sleep can help reduce stress and anxiety. Engage in activities that bring you joy and help you relax, such as yoga, meditation, or reading.
5. Seek support: Talk to friends, family, or a mental health professional about your concerns and feelings. Sharing your emotions with others can help you feel heard and understood.
6. Practice relaxation techniques: Regularly practice relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or mindfulness meditation, to help manage anxiety and stress.
7. Set boundaries: Establish boundaries around your exposure to news and social media to avoid excessive worry and anxiety.
8. Engage in activities you enjoy: Make time for hobbies, creative pursuits, or other activities that bring you joy and help distract you from worries about the pandemic.
9. Practice gratitude: Reflect on the things you're grateful for each day, no matter how small they may seem. Focusing on the positive can help shift your perspective.
10. Take breaks from technology: Regularly disconnect from technology and take breaks from the constant stream of information about the pandemic.
11. Get enough sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night to help your body and mind recover from the stress of the pandemic.
12. Consider seeking professional help: If your fears and anxiety are impacting your daily life, consider seeking help from a mental health professional. They can provide you with personalized guidance and support.

Additional resources:

• The World Health Organization (WHO) has a dedicated webpage on mental health and COVID-19, with tips and resources for managing anxiety and stress.
• The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) has a webpage on coping with stress and anxiety during the pandemic.
• The American Psychological Association (APA) has a webpage on managing stress and anxiety during the pandemic.

Remember, it's essential to prioritize your mental health during this challenging time. By taking care of your mental well-being, you can better cope with the stress and anxiety associated with the pandemic.