As I currently write this post, I'm sure you are aware of what is happening to our world, COVID-19. Our freedom, safety, security, general health, mental health, financial status, etc... have become uncertain.
Change is inevitable, no matter how resilient and healthy we are, we all deal with change in different ways. Fear of the unknown can bring about an overwhelming flood of negative emotions such as uncertainty, hopelessness, and anxiety. Having healthy coping skills can help us feel more in control and at ease.
As an optimistic, I'd like to think during this time we can perhaps take the time to learn about ourselves, gain a more positive outlook on life and learn or reinforce healthy ways of coping with internal or external stressors, that can be used in future "crunch times" such as exams, thesis defense, publishing papers and data, work overload and/or life in general.
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention has published a great article on ways of coping during this particular COVID-19 time, which you can check out here.
Some healthy coping skills that I feel would come in handy at any time are:
Social support, feeling connected and supported by those who are closest to you, reaching out to someone and having a good social support network can make us feel less alone. Spend quality time with friends, family and/or your pet.
Diet, having a healthy diet not only keeps you well fueled, but at a molecular level keeps you hormonally balanced and more adaptable to stressors.
Rest, getting enough adequate restful sleep can be very important in managing stress, it allows your mind to clear itself and reset. Sometimes just stepping away from work can allow you to come back with a clearer mind, which allows you to work more effectively and efficiently.
"Me-time", taking time for yourself in doing something that you enjoy, allows the "inner child" to come out and relax. Doing things you enjoy, such as hobbies, working out, meditation, a warm bath, journaling, watching a good film, whatever does it for you or you consider "me-time", do that.
Routine, write goals down and create a routine. When you have a routine you have something to stick to, you' ve put the time in and feel like you have accomplished your day. Start small, be realistic and know that sometimes we can't finish everything all at once, plan it out and that way you will be less inclined to procrastinate or stress about the lack of accomplished tasks.
Remember, we all don't cope in the same way, but what is important is that you find something that helps you cope in a healthy way.
Stay safe, be kind to yourself and others!!
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