How to Survive Lockdown Anxiety
Do you have anxiety?
If the answer to that question is no you are not alone.
The past year and a half have been some of the hardest and strangest times not only locally but globally because of the response to the pandemic.
Initially the lack of information and uncertainty around how dangerous the virus was. Then massive amounts of hardships caused by the lockdowns have resulted in unprecedented numbers of people suffering from depression and anxiety.
We have seen this played out very recently when people rushed out and emptied the shelves of toilet rolls again. Panic buying because they fear that the shops will be empty because of the lockdowns.
Add in job insecurity or looking after children while working from home because of the stay at home order has left us feeling desperate.
There seems to be no solution and no end in sight.
Lockdown anxiety is very real and is increasing.
What can I do when I have anxiety?
Whilst there are many things that we can’t control, there are some things we can do to protect our mental health around lockdowns.
My top 5 to help you survive lockdown anxiety
Switch off the news
Whilst we need to stay up to date with current developments and the constant onslaught of bad news day after day can elevate adrenaline and cortisol. Being in a fight and flight state is draining and doesn’t help us in our day to day life. Switch the news off.
Get outside and exercise
It is essential we not only move our bodies for good health it is also beneficial to get outside and get some fresh air. Whether you prefer a good long walk or a short walk, there is no downside to exercise. It will cause your body to release endorphins and make you feel much better for the rest of the day.
Eat mostly healthy food
A little treat occasionally is nice but if you make the majority of the food you eat nutritiously, you will give your body and mind all of the raw materials to be as healthy as you can be. Not only does this help with your lockdown mental health but it will also give your immune system a boost. Ensuring that if you do get exposed to any viruses your body can fight them easily.
Do something relaxing
Whether you enjoy mediation or reading, yoga or soaking in a relaxing bath. Take the opportunity to relax back and enjoy some downtime doing something that you enjoy.
Get help from a mental health professional
Seeking help is not a sign of weakness. We all have our capacity it given the current lockdown mental health crisis many of us have hit that ceiling. Find a professional who you think can help you.
As you can see there are many things you can do to help keep your sanity and get help with how anxious you are. Even just doing one of the 5 on the list can change your day from feeling awful to being enjoyable.
And of course, please reach out to me if you want to find out how I can help you get through lockdowns through Hypnotherapy treatment for Anxiety. Online appointments are available and hypnosis is very effective even when not face to face.
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