Yes, things are going to be different, but ask yourself if it’s the virus that scares you or the drastic changes or lack of control or uncertainty.
Your mindset during this crisis is everything. Your perspective is the most powerful thing that you can control in a situation that is truly out of your control. The disruptions are frightening. Panic and worry do not prepare you for dealing with this pandemic. They create more stress, compromising the immune system and making us more vulnerable.
For most people, uncertainty can cause you tremendous anxiety. Your survival brain is constantly updating your world, making judgments about what's safe and what isn't. It makes up all sorts of untested stories, hundreds of times a day because uncertainty can mean danger. If your brain doesn't know what’s around the corner, it can’t keep you out of harm’s way. We are hardwired to assume the worst and underestimate your ability to handle the threats.
When your stress level goes off the charts arousing your “flight or fight” reaction, the wait for some assurance can feel like a form of torture. Most often, the brain prefers to know an outcome one way or another to take the edge off. Scientists have found that job uncertainty, takes a greater toll on your health than actually losing the job. Researchers discovered that study participants who knew for sure they would receive a painful electric shock felt calmer and less agitated than those who were told they only had a 50% chance of getting the electric shock
Recognize your Situation & Feeling
Recognizing and facing our particular uncertainties in small doses every day is ok; it’s what will aid us as we navigate these troubling times. Allowing yourself a window of time to face these fears can be helpful. This maybe in the form of journaling, talking to a friend, or a professional as necessary. I encourage people to acknowledge their anxieties and have a set time to vent and share in some way. Have a specific worry time. Worry on purpose, share it with someone and then move on with your day. Those that can’t put their fears aside after trying this technique may need to set aside a second time to worry on purpose, then after that, you’re done. You can’t worry again until that time comes.
What comes after recognizing these situations and feelings?
Taking great care of yourself at this time cannot be overstated. During times of extreme stress or crisis, it is crucial to step up your, self -care game!
Listen to your body. Your eyes may hurt from too much screen time, you may have a headache and your body may ache from fatigue. Shut things down and address the physical feelings. What has worked for you in the past? Is it getting up and stretching, doing some deep breathing, listening to music, or a podcast, reading, or doing a yoga pose? Whatever works for you, use it now and make it part of your daily routine.
Tapping into your strengths is what will save you. Go back to what you know and where you shine, then go forward from there.