The novel COVID-19 has already affected millions of people across the world. The whole country is in a complete lockdown and people are working from home. However, a major concern here is the virus is having wide-ranging effects on the lives of the people, which include experiencing stress and anxiety. People are having different reactions to this crisis depending on their background. For instance, old aged, people with chronic diseases, children and teens, who are at higher risk of coronavirus are more stressed than the others. People with mental health conditions are experiencing new or worsening existing symptoms.
What Can We Do?
Stay informed but stop overdose of checking news. It is always good to be well aware of what is happening in your country and surroundings so that you can follow advised safety precautions. Keeping a watch on the pandemic repeatedly can upset you. You must be aware of the spreading misinformation, therefore, sticking to trustworthy news sources such as the World Health Organisation and government institutions is always advisable.
If you are getting anxious by news updates, immediately limit your monitoring. If you are already facing anxiety issues, stop following news rather ask someone reliable to share important information. Moreover, it is crucial to understand that one must be following due diligence while sharing any information during the viral distress on social media platforms. Verify the information before you pass on and contribute your part in avoiding the spread of rumours and misinformation.
It is also advised to take care of yourself while staying at home. Deep breathing, meditation, having a balanced diet and little bit of exercise will help you out a lot. Keep yourself engaged in the activities you enjoy – watch movies and series you like on OTT platforms, read books, try cooking something new, create a piece of art. Portals such as JSTOR have made thousands of books available for free for a week to the people who are at home. Do whatever you find enjoyable but avoid going outside the home in any case!
The Bottom Line
In our fight against the pandemic, after a long time, India is witnessing people moving across all the social barriers of caste, class, gender and religion and standing together. Hence, you are not alone. The best service to the community would be to help yourself first. Staying at home can be difficult, but by doing so, you are already helping our society to survive. It would be best if you can be a calming influence on your panicking loved ones.