The current COVID-19 pandemic created a special and unusual reality. Not only can this virus affect people physically, but also psychologically. In such a context, many people will experience stress, anxiety, and depression.
Stress is a normal physiological response to an abnormal situation; it is an integral part of our existence. Unlike fear, which is a response to a definite and very real threat, anxiety is a response to a vague or unknown threat. Anxiety manifests itself when we believe that a dangerous or unfortunate event can occur and we anticipate it.
I had already been in this situation for so long, and I could not see an end to it any time soon […] It really felt like I was in this tunnel and there is no light at the end of it, and I could not see behind my anymore. I was in darkness all the time
الحلقة 11: قصة في وقت كورونا : ايجاد الدواء الملائم لاضطرابات القلق مع ملك صادق
Dealing with Anxiety and Stress
It’s important to deal with these feelings of stress and anxiety, and prevent them from bottling up over time. We shouldn’t neglect the feelings we have and undermine them. Pay attention to how you’re reacting to certain things and give yourself permission to express your feelings, to someone else, or to your own self. Face your feelings through writing, painting, or singing, or any means you find most helpful.
Self-expression is not the only way of course to deal with stress and anxiety, adopting a healthy lifestyle and practicing physical activity can contribute immensely to your psyche. By practicing any activity that allows you to relieve your stress and eliminate your tensions, and by adopting healthy habits, such as eating well and getting enough sleep, you will eventually improve your body’s tolerance and thus your reaction to stressful events.
You shouldn’t feel guilty about feeling good! Indulge in small pleasures every now and then, or even all the time! As long as these pleasures are non-damaging to your health, allow yourself to be surrounded by them.
One aspect we often neglect is our inner circle. The friends and people you surround yourself with subconsciously affect your psyche. Make sure to always stay in touch with the people who make you feel good about yourself, and with whom you can set clear limits and boundaries.
And most importantly, do not be afraid to ask for help. It’s okay and there is no shame in it. You are not weak, you are not alone. We are all only human. Allow yourself to be human, and ask for help when you reckon that you need it.
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