Coping with Anxiety
Iliana Buda
A Struggle Due to COVID-19
We all know that leading a happy life can be very difficult, especially when we don’t expect for things to go a certain way. In a similar situation, none of us saw this pandemic coming. We were not prepared for what the year of 2020 was going to bring and the worst part of it all is that it was carried into 2021.
We have had to adapt to certain restrictions, such as wearing masks and not being able to leave our homes. Some of us may be struggling with our mental and emotional health.
Throughout these hard months, I have struggled with my mental health. My anxiety and stress levels are higher than normal at times, and, if any of you are feeling the same way, understand that it is okay.
An increase in mental health and/or substance abuse due to COVID-19 was identified in 2020.
According to the National Institutes of Health, during June 24-30 of 2020, 40% of adults reported that their depression had increased since the pandemic began. This depression was largely due to different work related issues and/or because of the fact that there were restrictions on social interaction for quite some time. The National Institutes of Health also sent out a survey (with 195 responses) that showed that 70% of students had an increase in anxiety and depression. Some “stressors” that contributed to these students’ depressive thoughts, anxiety, and stress was fear about their health and their loved ones, less interaction because of social distancing, and/or difficulty concentrating, not only in school-like environments but simply regularly.
If you or someone you know is going through something similar, know that there are many solutions to lessen these negative feelings. Having dark thoughts is completely normal but shouldn’t be taken lightly. If these thoughts are interfering with your everyday life, it is important to seek help from a trusted adult.
Going for walks outside is a great way to de-stress, especially during times like these. Some of you should consider going to a local gym to release the negative energy that is trying to take over your body. Studies have shown that "regular exercise works as well as medication for people" who are trying to control their anxiety and depression ("Exercise for Stress and Anxiety"). People have noticed changes in their physical and mental health after getting into a good exercise routine. If you are not able to go out, simply doing yoga or any kind of meditation at home will definitely help in relaxing the body. For those who are not interested in these forms of relaxation, find something that helps you specifically. It could be something as simple as listening to music or reading a book.
I, personally, have found that writing in a journal helps a lot. It is a way that I can let out my feelings without feeling judged. It is also a good exercise for people who love reading and writing. Finding distractions that are beneficial to the body is very important. Turning to things that can have a negative effect on the body should never be an option. Remember that we all experience stress and negativity at some point or another, just in our own different ways. This pandemic will not be around forever, and it is important that we don't lose sight of what is right in front of us: we are healthy and that is a good reason to keep fighting.