Are You Feeling Anxious About The Corona Virus?

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. 

Four Signs Your Anxiety is Getting the Better of You

We've all experienced some level of anxiety at one point or another in life. It's uncomfortable and it eventually passes so we don't give it any more thought but when it becomes more frequent and intense, or it's simply not going away, there's a sense that something is not quite right.

Let's explore some of the things most people can relate to at the hour of noticing this level of anxiety and why it's a good idea to seek an experienced Psychologist for help.

1. When it is creating  distress in your life and it's starting to make you feel down

Thoughts are becoming scattered, going round in circles, it may even be hard to focus at times. Perhaps it feels like you are losing some control and that is starting to create an extra level of worry.

Unfortunately, it may be impacting either work, your relationships or study. Maybe your sleep is getting interrupted which means the next day, functioning at an optimal level just becomes slightly harder.

All this could create physical tension, maybe heart palpitations or even an intense sense of dread or panic without any explanation at all.

Panic can feel very overwhelming and scary experience. Sometimes people end up feeling flat or down after such high levels of anxiety, wanting to isolate, withdraw or avoid certain people (tasks or events). There is a risk depression may be on its way too.

2. Nothing you have done or are doing is making it go away

So you've spoken to your family and friends and they have tried to say everything that might help but it may only give you temporary relief. You've tried engaging in some distraction, exercise and other healthy habits only to realise something is still there.

Talking to your circle of people is helpful in the beginning but after a period of time, it may start to become repetitive and may create some discomfort in the relationship.  It's a clear sign that their ability to help is now limited when your loved ones suggest professional support is your best option.

3. You are self medicating or using over-reliant coping mechanisms

It may be alcohol, party drugs, some gambling, pornography  or over relying on others, perhaps engaging in a healthy activities (such as exercise) but over doing it. All in hope of quietening the anxiety or distracting yourself enough to not notice it.

Unfortunately, the catch twenty two is that all these efforts seem to provide a helpful distraction for a while, but in the end, they are harmful to yourself mentally and physically. These unhealthy coping mechanisms could impact the relationships you have with others around you.

4. People you know are suggesting that you reach out to a professional for help

Suggesting you speak to a qualified professional who can help is another way others can support you. It's not easy to watch someone you care for suffer emotionally, therefore it is the best advice they can give you.  It keeps your relationships healthy and you get to work on resolving your concerns in a confidential, safe and professional manner. Perhaps it's time to be proactive and seek the right help with a trained psychologist to start working on what matters the most, your peace of mind.

by Psychologist Magdalena Lopez

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.