As states begin to return to pre-pandemic existence, many people start to worry about reopening. While you can expect the emotional responses to a health crisis like the COVID-19 pandemic (e.g., tension, concern, despair, tiredness, and numbness), you cannot overlook post-COVID anxiety.
In this article, we will dig deeper into the negative influence of the pandemic on one’s mental health, including some coping therapy for stress, fear, and worry.
Recognizing Post-COVID Anxiety
The pandemic of COVID-19 has had a significant impact on our lives. Many people encounter difficulties that can be stressful, upsetting, and elicit powerful emotions in both adults and children. Public health measures like social separation are vital to stop COVID-19 from spreading, but they can make us feel alone and lonely and cause tension and worry.
Some of the symptoms of post-COVID stress include:
- Fear, anger, sadness, concern, numbness, or frustration
- Changes in appetite, energy, desires, and interests
- Difficulty concentrating and making decisions
- Difficulty sleeping or nightmares.
- Increased use of cigarettes, alcohol, and other substances
- Physical reactions such as headaches, body pains, stomach issues, and skin rashes
- Worsening of chronic health problems
- Worsening of mental health disorders
Acute stress disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder [PTSD], or secondary traumatic stress may be present in some persons, particularly those who have observed many deaths. Compassion fatigue and burnout are also reported due to continuous professional stress and traumatic incidents associated with the COVID-19 pandemic.
Even after the epidemic is over, the pandemic’s mental health consequences will continue to develop. The mental health impact of disasters has been shown to outlast the physical effect in the past, implying that today’s increased mental health needs will last much beyond the coronavirus pandemic.
Healthy Ways to Cope with COVID-Related Stress
People who have been diagnosed with an anxiety condition and those who do not may face more stress. So, here are a few expert-backed coping suggestions to keep in mind as our world changes yet again:
Take a break from watching news articles, particularly those on social media.
Although it is beneficial to be aware, constantly hearing about the epidemic can be distressing. Consider restricting your news consumption to a few times each day and taking a break from your phone, television, and computer screens for a bit.
Take good care of yourself.
Take a few deep breaths, stretch out your muscles, or meditate on external symbols. Make an effort to consume nutritious, well-balanced meals. Exercise regularly and make sure you get enough rest. Avoid excessive intake of alcohol, tobacco, and other substances. Follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations for routine preventative measures (such as immunizations and cancer screenings). Get vaccinated!
Connect with friends and other circles.
Discuss your problems and feelings with individuals you can trust. Make contact with local or faith-based organizations. Try communicating online, through social media, phone, or mail when social distancing measures are in place.
If necessary, reach out for help.
Suppose you have attempted to control your anxiety but have not seen any improvement. In that case, it’s crucial to assess how severe your stress is and perhaps engage with a mental health expert.
Helping Others Deal with Anxiety
Taking care of yourself will allow you to have better respect for others. It’s highly crucial to stay in touch with friends and family during times of social isolation. Using phone conversations or video chats to help others cope with stress might make you and your loved ones feel less lonely and isolated.
Wrapping Up
Switching to remote work, holding all weekend discussions over Zoom, and stocking up on face masks may seem like just as significant a life-changing move as getting back into the world. While some people may find it exhilarating, others are more likely to find the prospect of reentering society stressful or both. Whatever you’re going through, it’s critical to recognize and accept where you’re at and, if necessary, find some helpful ways to return to your pre-pandemic activities safely.
If you experience any post-COVID anxiety symptoms, seek help from a trusted therapist at Therapy24x7. You can benefit from an effective yet affordable therapy in Brooklyn if you choose us! Contact us today to schedule an appointment!