Handy Tips To Cope With Pandemic-Induced Anxiety

Is worrying about health issues impacting your mood and immune system? Here are ways to deal with pandemic-related stress : Gratitude journal, yoga, healthy eating and pursuing hobbies

- Shikha Shah

Researchers in United States, Netherlands and other countries have found that recent symptoms of anxiety and depression increased during the pandemic. The signs of mental breakdown are more often seen in young adults up to the age of 40, many of whom lost their jobs, students whose dreams of higher studies were shattered as most countries sealed their international borders for months; and children between the age groups of three and four, who were showing many behavioural issues, as they were confined to their homes.

KNOW IF YOUR ANXIETY IS PANDEMIC-INDUCED People are experiencing a wide variety of psychological effects as a result of COVID-19 outbreaks. “Regardless of their exposure, people can feel fear and anxiety about being sick or dying, helplessness, or guilt for other people’s illnesses, which may lead to a mental breakdown,” says Chawla. According to several studies, longer periods of quarantine are linked to a higher prevalence of psychological distress. “Look for symptoms like difficulty in falling asleep, waking up suddenly or having bad dreams frequently. If you are waking up in the middle of sleep worrying about health issues, it is an indicator of rising stress levels,” says Pooja Khera, happiness and well-being coach.