Supporting Others in Coping: Building Connections and Seeking Help

coping with stress

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our lives has been profound. It has presented us with challenges that induce stress, overwhelm us, and trigger intense emotions in adults and children. While public health measures like social distancing are crucial in curbing the spread of the virus, they can lead to feelings of isolation, loneliness, and heightened stress and anxiety. Developing healthy coping mechanisms for stress is essential for building resilience in ourselves and those around us.

Stress can manifest in various ways, including:

  • Emotional responses: Fear, anger, sadness, worry, numbness, or frustration.
  • Changes in behavior: Altered appetite, energy levels, desires, and interests.
  • Cognitive difficulties: Trouble concentrating, making decisions, or experiencing sleep disturbances and nightmares.
  • Physical reactions: Headaches, body aches, digestive issues, and skin rashes.
  • Aggravation of existing health conditions, both physical and mental.
  • Increased reliance on tobacco, alcohol, and other substances.

Experiencing stress, anxiety, grief, and worry during this pandemic is normal. Here are some ways to effectively support yourself, others, and your community in managing stress.

Healthy Strategies for Coping with Stress

  1. Maintain a Healthy Balance: Limit Exposure to News and Take Breaks
  2. Stay informed but avoid constant exposure to pandemic-related news, including social media. Set specific times to catch up on updates and disconnect from screens periodically, giving yourself a break from phones, TVs, and computers.
  3. Prioritize Self-Care: Nourish Your Body and Mind
  4. Engage in activities that promote well-being:
    • Practice deep breathing, stretching, or meditation.
    • Ensure you consume nutritious and balanced meals.
    • Incorporate regular exercise into your routine.
    • Get sufficient sleep for proper rest and rejuvenation.
    • Steer clear of excessive alcohol, tobacco, and substance use.
    • Maintain Preventive Healthcare Measures
    • Continue following your healthcare provider's recommendations for routine preventive measures, such as vaccinations and cancer screenings. Stay updated and adhere to necessary healthcare protocols.
    • COVID-19 Vaccination
  5. When available, consider getting vaccinated against COVID-19. Follow the guidance provided by healthcare authorities to protect yourself and others.
  6. Find Time to Unwind and Enjoy Activities
  7. Allocate time for activities that bring you joy and help you unwind. Engage in hobbies or pastimes that provide relaxation and a sense of fulfillment.
  8. Stay Connected: Seek Support and Community. Open up to trusted individuals about your concerns and emotions. Share your thoughts with people who can provide support and understanding. Connect with community and faith-based organizations, leveraging online platforms, social media, or communication via phone or mail while adhering to social distancing measures.

Adopting these healthy coping strategies can contribute to your overall well-being and resilience during challenging times.

Supporting Others in Coping

Taking care of yourself is essential to being able to support others effectively. Maintaining connections with friends and family holds great significance, particularly in times of social distancing. Offering assistance to loved ones in managing their stress through phone calls or video chats can help alleviate feelings of loneliness and isolation for both parties.

Mental Health and Crisis Support

If you find it challenging to cope with stress, there are numerous avenues for seeking help. Start with reading the essay on stress, and reach your healthcare provider if the pressure significantly impacts your daily activities for consecutive days.

During periods of heightened stress, thoughts of suicide may arise. Remember, suicide is preventable, and support is readily available. Educate yourself on the risk factors, warning signs, and appropriate responses if you or someone you know experiences such thoughts.

Additionally, free and confidential crisis resources are accessible to connect you or your loved ones with trained counselors in your area. These resources serve as valuable sources of assistance during times of crisis.

If you are in crisis, get immediate help:

Was this helpful?

Thanks for your feedback!

Related Blog Posts

Join our 150K of happy users

  • Get original papers written according to your instructions
  • Save time for what matters most
Place an order