Tips for Coping with Anxiety in the Face of COVID-19

As news about the spread of COVID-19 outbreak fills our screens day after day, it’s easy to become overwhelmed and develop anxiety.

“Human beings like certainty and having control over the situation,” said Dr. Nadir Attiah, a psychiatrist with UNC Psychiatry at Goldsboro. He offers his best tips for managing stress and anxiety while we practice social distancing.

• Know the situation: Follow the news, but choose only one news source to follow. Conflicting news causes anxiety. Also, only check the news one or two times a day, so it doesn’t become overwhelming.
• Social media: It isn’t a reliable source for news. Use it strictly for socializing with friends and keeping in touch.
• Enjoy what you can control while social distancing: Enjoy a walk in nature, movie on Netflix with the family or read a book.
• Continue doing what you like doing: You can’t go to church right now, so watch the stream. You can’t visit friends and family, so Skype or FaceTime with them.
• Take things seriously when you do them at home: Work, online classes and working out are all important.
• Spend time with family: It’s important to have quality bonding time. Take pictures, make videos, make memories.
• Avoid unnecessary appointments: Even your doctors will be happy to cancel well or unnecessary visits or answer questions through virtual visits, phone calls or MyUNCChart.
• Share what you’re feeling: It can be beneficial to share your anxiety and thoughts with friends. Talk about it, or keep a journal.
• Ask for help: If you feel overwhelmed and have a counselor or therapist, call them, said Dr. Attiah. If you don’t have a counselor or therapist, ask your doctor if they can send you to see one.

If you are feeling stress or anxiety related to COVID-19, reach out to your primary care provider today.