Effective Coping Strategies During the COVID-19 Pandemic

The current restrictive measures taken to contain the further spread of the COVID-19 have impacted the lives of many from different parts of the world. Stress, anxiety, and quarantine fatigue are just some of the most common things people experience during the lockdown.

MD News Daily gathered some of the most effective coping strategies you can do to get through this difficult time. 

Nurture Existing Connections

Physical distancing and stay-at-home order are some of the measures adopted by most countries all over the world. But despite all that, you can still stay connected with your family and friends.

The stay-at-home order provides more time to connect to other people virtually. Utilize apps intended for communication to write, call, or video chat with your loved ones.

Social support is crucial in times of stress. Make sure you always take time to check and connect with your support network. Maintaining human connection reduces the sense of isolation.

Stay Active and Take Care of Your Body 

At this time of crisis, your priority should be your health and safety. You can do so by exercising regularly, eating well, getting enough sleep, and a daily dose of sunshine. There are lots of exercises you can do indoors.

Yoga and meditation are another way to help keep you focused and grounded. A simple walk or short run can also reduce stress and anxiety. These activities have both physical and mental benefits to people during the pandemic.

Maintain a Routine

During this uncertain time, maintaining a routine is essential to one's health. According to Dr. Alexa Mieses, the most effective way to fight or reduce quarantine fatigue is by taking a walk and going to sleep at the same hour every day, as well as incorporating physical activity and eating nutritious meals every day.

Enjoy Nature and Fresh Air

Other countries with less strict public health emergency measures allow people to take walks in nature. Walking is a form of non-strenuous exercise that offers various health benefits, including longer life span, improved psychological well-being, and lower blood pressure.

Take advantage of nature and fresh air any way you can. You can simply do this by sitting in the balcony or stepping outside for a while.

Another way to enjoy nature is to take up gardening if you have access to a balcony or garden. According to an old study published in The Medical Journal of Australia, gardening is associated with a lower risk of developing dementia. 

Several other studies also associate gardening with a lower risk of cardiovascular events like heart attack and stroke.

Explore New Hobbies

Exploring a new skill or hobby is another coping strategy for some people. However, not everyone has the time or mental capacity to do so. But in general, a new hobby, improving an existing skill, or exploring new creative outlets can significantly improve your mental health.

Some of these activities can be learning and playing a new game, researching a new and different topic of interest, or diving into a craft such as gardening, cross-stitch, and single-line drawing.

The current pandemic is challenging in many ways. That is why we must ensure our mental health and overall well-being. Staying informed is crucial, but as much as possible, limit the time you spent on social media and reduce exposure to the news cycle. You must know different coping strategies to help yourself get through this current pandemic.