As we enter the second year of COVID-19, it’s important to acknowledge the impact of the pandemic on both our physical and mental health. Each day, we see the disease’s effects on those we love, on our workplaces, on our schools, and in the news.
We must also remember that strong emotions and stress are normal. We are facing many challenges and the “new normal” is an ongoing process. We don’t know a lot – and that can create stress on its own. For both adults and children, the constant changes and continued restrictions can wear us down or overwhelm us. Social distancing can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness.
While stress is normal and expected in life, there are times when you need extra help or connection. At True Relationships, we understand that coping in these times can be hard. We are parents too. We are grandparents, children, brothers, and sisters. Just like you.
If you need to talk through your stress, contact us. Our team is compassionate, empathetic, and trained to deal with ongoing stress and the harm it can cause.
Stress can cause:
- Feelings of fear, anger, sadness, worry, numbness, or frustration
- Changes in appetite, energy, desires, and interests
- Difficulty concentrating and making decisions
- Difficulty sleeping or nightmares
- Physical reactions, such as headaches, body pains, stomach problems, and skin rashes
- Worsening of chronic health problems
- Worsening of mental health conditions
- Increased use of tobacco, alcohol, or substances
What can you do to help yourself in these times?
- Limit your screen time. Take breaks from the news and social media. It’s good to be informed but hearing about the pandemic all the time is draining.
- Take care of your body.
- Take deep breaths and stretch.
- Eat healthy foods.
- Exercise and get fresh air.
- Get enough sleep.
- Connect with others. We encourage social distancing but still connecting with friends and family. Make calls, web chat, and take time for each other. Connecting can also mean attending worship services or community events in a healthy way or over the internet.
Our team at True Relationships understands that stress can be more than just feeling bad. It can affect our anxiety levels and cause other health issues to worsen. If you need to talk to someone about coping, stress, anxiety, or loneliness, we are here with trained counselors and pastoral therapists who can listen and help you through these tough times.
Additional sources:
Mental Health and Coping During COVID-19. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/managing-stress-anxiety.html
Jud;y Boarman
February 17, 2021 at 5:15 pm
Excellent article. When I read the stress symptoms, it was interesting to note skin rash was one I am dealing with. Food intake is also one I am struggling with. Certainly relieved we have counseling in place.
admin_wp
February 27, 2021 at 6:59 pm
😁 Thank you for your honesty about what you are dealing with from the stress in your life. We are glad you have counseling in place, too!