Everyone is talking about the coronavirus as this new pandemic spreads and the whole world watches attentively at the range of effects from simple symptoms to deaths. Unfortunately, as the world is changing and evolving with this virus, so is the rate of mass hysteria that is accompanying it. Without underestimating the life-threatening potential of this virus, it is also important to notice how the world has created an extraordinary level of panic and irrationality that is making things ten times worse.
It's very easy now to be overwhelmed by all the information that is being published, not to mention the added rumors and speculations that heighten these stories, at home, work, in public, amongst friends, etc.
So here is the thing, there are 2 levels of difficulty happening right now, the virus and the frenzy. What we do know is that the virus and its effects are being managed daily by the government and medical institutions. However, the frenzy is out of control.
The baseline solution starts with asking yourself whether if you want to be part of the facts or entertain yourself in the world of frenzy. The latter will definitely cause you anxiety, uncertainty, doubt, mistrust, confusion, and loss of perspective. You might end up being one of those people buying 48 rolls of toilet paper without a really good explanation.
Here are a few quick tips on how to manage anxiety whilst keeping healthy and safe:
1. Know the FACTS. the government has made real efforts to publish on their website all the information that the public needs to know. They have the best professionals working round the clock to help, so read this information and learn it well.
*Federal Government https://www.health.gov.au/
*State Government https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/coronavirus-covid-19-transmission-reduction-measures
They have different areas of responsibility and the resources they control, so they have separate but aligned responses.
2. Avoid news, social media sensationalization and all other sources of gossip that aren't from government sources. Unfortunately, the may misrepresent the facts leading to a very quick game of speculations, and the typical "they are saying now that..." which creates more anxiety with the public.
If you need reassurance, stick to the government pages. https://www.facebook.com/healthgovau
3. Keep living your life! Life has not stopped because the world has a pandemic. There have been many pandemics since the beginning of time. We have facts, try and adhere to them within reason and remember to continue going about life. We need to adjust to restrictions creatively.
4. Take this time out for more self-care, compassion and healthy living. Social distancing does NOT mean becoming a hermit or living in total isolation unless you are sick or quarantined. If you are at risk, take the precautions necessary. If you don't know if you are at risk, speak to your doctor so you know what to do but don't disconnect from life and others.
5. Learn to live sparingly and practice compassion. Stop hoarding! Others in need are getting affected and it's perpetuating a toxic cycle of selfishness and greed that is not substantiated by this pandemic.
Choose facts over frenzy to remain calm.
If you are struggling, please reach out to a psychologist to keep the communication open about your anxiety.
By Psychologist Magdalena Lopez
St Kilda Road Psychology
About Me: I'm a caring & compassionate Psychologist in Melbourne, helping adults, couples and families in counselling who have anxiety, depression or relationship concerns, live a happier, healthier life.