We are all aware of the fact that many countries have adopted nationwide lockout measures to stop the steady increase in COVID-19 cases. While staying at home for about 6 months as a preventive measure, the consequences of coronavirus lockdown have not been very pleasant for everyone.
No doubt, this pandemic situation has become a stressful condition for almost everyone. However, the way of showing the reaction differs from person to person. While some may not be bothered much about the outside world and feel peaceful at home, whereas others do not cope up well with the current situation. As per the recent research, it has been found out that there can be hosts of the psychological impact of quarantine. These impacts can be anxiety, anger, sleep disturbance, depression and even PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder). Hence, if you are among those people who are experiencing mental stress during coronavirus lockdown, it is important to take deliberate measures to take care of yourself.
MAINTAIN A PROPER SLEEP CYCLE
It is pretty obvious to lose track of your daily routine while working from home, or due to the endless household chores, which further affects your sleep schedule. This disturbed routine is one of the most difficult aspects of quarantine. Therefore, no matter how much time you have to devote to your official or household work, make sure to lie the bed on time for a relaxed and deep sleep. Timely sleep ensures that you will wake up on time the next day and will not feel lazy or dull all day. Hence, stick to the time which suits you for a healthy start of the day. This will keep you productive and stress-free.
TAKE A BREAK IN BETWEEN YOUR 'TIGHT' WORK SCHEDULE
Work from home seems to be easy and comfortable, however, it does not allow you to relax for a minute. As a result, continuous work and sitting position makes you feel more tired and stressed. So, take a break from whatever you are doing as it is more essential to keep you productive throughout the day. Get up in every hour or two and get yourself a glass of water or do some stretching as a bare minimum. This all will keep your energy level boosted and free from the stress.
Much of the stress that people feel does not come from having too much to do. It comes from not finishing what they've started. - David Allen
DO NOT GO MUCH INTO THE NEWS
Although it is good as well as important to stay updated on the latest news around the work about COVID-19, staying glued 24X7 is not good. This will not only increase your stress but rather it will also make you feel bored and dull. Hence, do not dig much into the news related to COVID-19. Just stay updated on facts and myths.
SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS AND STAY CONNECTED
Coronavirus lockdown also entails social distancing which means you should maintain a proper distance whenever you meet any person, physically. Social distancing has made all of us separated from the outside world and restricts us to connect like the way we all used to do earlier. Despite being physically isolated from the outside world, you can still stay connected with your loved ones, virtually. Try using video calling apps like JioMeet, GoogleMeet, Facebook Rooms, etc to reach out to your family, friends and your loved ones. Alternatively, you may use various Social Media Apps just to stay connected with the outside world. These methods of staying connected are good enough to keep you stress-free rather than keeping your thoughts bottled up.
TAKE HELP OF YOUR CREATIVITY
Creativity is one of the best ways to release stress easily. Creativity can be like anything - cooking, painting, diary writing, etc. So, whenever you want some 'Me' time for yourself, spend your time on your creative side. It is always helpful and effective to make you feel good and relaxed.
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