1. Dealing with increased anxiety
With many businesses needing to close their doors indefinitely or seeing a sharp loss in customers, casual employees are unfortunately facing the possibility of losing their jobs. This can undoubtedly increase a lot of anxiety and fear for those that already struggle with feeling secure in their jobs. This added uncertainty could also lead to added stress in the workplace as the decision to not attend work if unwell could be marred by the fear of losing ones job. While there is little that can be done for such a situation, it is important to remember that there is always help available. Talking to your employer about your anxiety and current financial situation could help alleviate any uncertainty regarding your job. It also important to remind yourself that things will eventually stabilise and to take each day as it comes. It would also be a good time to touch base with your regular therapist to assist you with getting through this period.
2. Change of routine
For those that have to self-isolate or have to work from home, this huge shift in the regular routine could be very triggering. This is especially if a regular routine helps with the coping of anxiety or depression. It can be even more jarring to ones system especially if there are restrictions placed on activities or having planned events cancelled. Remember that it is always possible to create a new routine for yourself. Try to keep your sleep schedule as close to what it normally is and replace your regular tasks with something else. For example if you normally take your kids to school at 8 in the morning, schedule that as the time to play with them in the backyard instead. Searching for a project to do during this period can also be helpful. It could be doing a diy project that you have been meaning to try or reading a book you have not found the time for. Most importantly, try to look at this period as a time for resting and taking care of yourself.
3. Feeling isolated and abandoned
It may be hard for some to not feel isolated and abandoned while riding out the self-isolation period. Social distancing may make you feel disconnected from people and you may even be unable to attend your therapy sessions due to needing to stay at home. While having limited physical contact may lead to feelings of loneliness, there are ways to get through it! Perhaps you have always wanted to adopt a furry friend but have never found the time to be around enough to settle in a new pet. Take this opportunity to contact your local pound or shelter to see if they could arrange bringing you a suitable cat or dog for you to foster or adopt. You could also always call up your other friends that may be stuck at home and have a Skype phone call with them. There is also an extension for Netflix that allows your to stream movies simultaneously with your mates. Your therapist may offer virtual appointments during this period so do call them up to see if you can still have a meeting on the phone or through video conferencing instead. It is important now more than ever to stay on top of your mental health.
COPE offers both face-to-face and online counselling services.If you or someone you know is struggling to keep on top of mental health, please do not hesitate to reach out to us today. CONTACT US – Copecentre