Stress management during pandemic

 Doubtlessly 2020 and 2021 had been the most challenging years of this century. The news kept on pouring information

which are really overwhelming on one end as well as horrifying on the other causing both anxiety and fear at the same

time. There were lots of issues behind this, such as worries about family members at-risk of the disease, high frustration

levels due to various restrictions in routine life, for example; wearing masks, following social distancing norms and the

like. Adjusting to this new situation was a real challenge. As the days go by, the stress adds up, affecting us both

physically as well as mentally. Dealing with mental stress during a pandemic is challenge for everyone, as stress,

depression and anxiety lead to increased vulnerability and risk of life. Here, we will look at some surefire ways to deal

with the stress caused due to the outbreak of a pandemic and how to maintain a positive attitude during this period.

Strategies for dealing with stress:Find your hobbies

We understand that negative thoughts will not change anything and in fact, will worsen our mental health. Hence, rather

than focusing on fear of infection, job insecurity and financial distress, we shall try to divert our thoughts towards our

hobbies. Negativity can be interrupted by finding out the activities that you enjoy the most. This will not only engage

us, but will also add fun and joy to life. According to various studies, state of joy and fulfilment boost our immunity.

Regular Exercise

Physical activities have magical impact on physical as well as mental

health. Regular exercise and yoga causes your brain to release endorphins,

which are stress-relieving hormones that make you feel good. Regular

exercise is wonderful way for maintaining a healthy body and mind. It

also improves our sleep by lowering cortisol, the major stress hormone.

Sleep away all of your worries!

Limit Screen Time

Social media is undoubtedly a great way to connect with people. On the other hand, it also increases anxiety and stress

from the constant flow of information to worry about. Therefore, it is necessary to be careful while using social media.

Limit your screen time and be specific about the content you read.This will also help you to stay calm. It is better to

disable the push notifications, unfollow or mute your trigger account and hide Facebook posts and feeds, that causes

negative thoughts.

Schedule your Day

One can gain control in uncertainty by creating a daily structured plan that clearly defines the boundaries between work

and personal life. Take regular breaks, leave your desk for lunch, and schedule a set time to relax. Also, get enough

sleep and eat a healthy diet on a regular basis. Dividing the day into smaller activities and have time to enjoy with your

kids and pets.

Socializing reduces stress and anxiety

One can feel isolated without social interaction. Taking the time to contact and connect with others is also very

important to mental health. By talking to someone, you share your feelings and experiences, provide or receive support,

and make you feel connected. Talking to friends and family can help you control your stress level. Plan at least one

connection per day. Share your experience over the phone or chat with colleagues and friends. Consider visiting each

other with regular virtual gatherings with family and friends. This could be a great support in these times.

Profesional Support

In case if you feel overwhelmed and need professional help, there are many options available. You can seek help from

a professional counsellor or seek help from your peers. Peer support refers to persons who have experienced similar

mental stress and are willing to help others. Sessions are centred on sharing personal experiences and empathy, with an

emphasis on individual strengths and well-being. If you want to avoid meeting in person, you need to look for online

options.

Following these techniques to manage stress can go a long way toward assisting you in coping with the ever-changing

environment, while also assisting people around you, particularly children, in remaining calm and focussed. Contact a

behavioural medicine specialist for an in-person or virtual visit if you are unable to manage your anxiety or depression

on your own. We can’t change the situation but we can handle it with few small remedies up to some extent. It's just a

phase that will go. So rather than taking stress, help self and help others. Together we will win this and things will get

back to normal. "Take good care of self and everyone around you.”

Dr. Ambika Sharma

Asst. Professor

BBA Department