Coronavirus Coping Strategies

We are all in a time of extreme uncertainty, national anxiety and a kind of shared stress. We need to help ourselves and help others to stay positive during these unsettling times. Rumour and speculation can fuel anxiety.

• Take preventative actions by strictly following Government and NHS guidance CLICK HERE
• Limit your time on news channels and from consuming too much information on COVID-19. Constant stimulation on the pandemic prevents you from really switching off, increases your levels of anxiety and can cause insomnia.
• Ironically the more anxious we are, the more vulnerable we become to illness, as stress can damage our immune system
• Sleep well: research shows that people who get proper sleep are more likely to be able to fend off viruses
• Don't ignore anxiety – these are uncertain times for all of us. Try to express it. Acknowledging your feelings and knowing that it's normal to feel this way can help – keep a notebook, write down your anxieties and then put that away. Let it go
• Keep talking to your friends and relatives – phone/text/WhatsApp/Skype/Zoom/all types of social media.
• Eat and drink regularly – eating small amounts help to keep energy levels up
• Try to avoid sugary food such as chocolate or sweets as they only provide a short-term energy boost, often followed by an energy dip – eat fruit, nuts and slow release energy foods
• Keep hydrated by drinking plenty of water – and don't rely on caffeine!
• Get up and walk around if you need a break – go for a walk around your garden (if you have one) following the strict government directives regarding daily exercise and social distancing
• If you are working from home, don't eat your lunch at the laptop/desk – switch off and then reboot
• Be positive and thankful to those around us and to those who are still working and volunteering at the NHS Frontline/Chemists/Home Deliveries/Postal Workers/Newspaper Deliveries/Milk to your Doorstep etc. Remind those individuals of the fantastic work they are doing and how much we all appreciate their help and support

Keep well and positive everyone – from the Village Surgeries Group and PPG