Corona crisis: Surviving the age of anxiety
Psychologist warns of dangers to mental health as deadly pandemic disrupts lives
Panic-buying in supermarkets, weeks upon weeks spent in self-isolation, schools and workplaces shutting down...it’s enough to send anyone’s head into a spin.
Of course, it is indeed a frightening time and the risks posed by the deadly coronavirus must be taken very seriously but it is equally important to keep things in perspective – and look after yourself both physically and mentally.
“The thing about coronavirus is that the pace of change is fast,” says Dr Chris Hand, lecturer in psychology at Glasgow Caledonian University.
“The fact that people can’t really plan too far ahead and are constantly having to re-evaluate their plans, the lack of control that people have over their own lives naturally creates a level of anxiety.
“Then, there’s the issue of isolation. It’s quite a scary word for people to come to terms with.” Whether you have to self-isolate after showing symptoms or are practising sensible social distancing, everyone is going to miss that closeness with friends and relatives.
“People’s self-identities will change, in that they lose contact with people who are close to them. It’s another way in which you lose control.
“Being limited in movement, all of these things can be really difficult to deal with.
“Then, of course, there is the issue of the threat to life of people you are close to, particularly older or more vulnerable relatives, people we are meant to look after, but we just don’t have that control. “People are powerless.
“The things you would ordinarily do to support these people could actually be counterproductive in the current circumstances, which is a scary and challenging thought.
“They can all lead to anxiety, which in a general sense is an issue with things like intensive thoughts.
“Negative thoughts will creep in regardless of what an individual is trying to think about.
“There are also physiological changes such as sweating, an increased heart rate and disrupted sleep, which can have a huge effect on your wellbeing.
“Anxiety is a universal psychological experience.
“Everyone is capable of experiencing it but it becomes a problem is when it becomes uncontrollable.
“And people’s anxiousness is naturally heightened when we’re in crisis – but the most important thing is to try to manage it. “There has been some good advice already issued by the likes of the World Health Organisation on anxiety management techniques.
“I’d certainly advise anyone with concerns to take a look.
“My advice would be to try to adapt your life to fit with the circumstances, and try not to worry too much.
“We are fortunate in this digital age that we have tools, such as online shopping, email and social media to help us manage day to day life. In previous pandemics many years ago, people had to manage without these – and survived it.”
Isolation is proving a scary experience for thousands around the world
People are powerless. Anxiety is heightened when we’re in a crisis
will help you adjust.”
Eat healthily
“It is difficult because of the limited access to shops and products, but try to eat healthily.
“It is the easiest thing to do when you are fearful but try not to drink too much alcohol, and don’t binge on snacks.”
Try new things
“Use the opportunity to find new things to do, such as cooking as a family, or if you are on your own, reading a book, signing up for an online course, learning a new language, or getting that old guitar out from the back of the wardrobe and giving it a go.
There’s never been a better time to try it!”
Enjoy isolation
“Social isolation doesn’t mean you are under house arrest. Get out into the garden, go jogging as long as you are careful not to get too close to others, go for a drive and if you are healthy, find a new outdoor activity to try.”
And...relax
Self-care is key to reducing anxiety. Try to take 30 minutes every day to do something that helps you relax. Go outdoors, speak to a friend who makes you laugh or just use the time to close your eyes and escape the chaos of life.