During the COVID-19 outbreak, you would be able to feel unsettled because staying home for a long time. Here are some effective ways to reduce stress recommended by WHO.
1. Talk to people
It is normal to feel sad, stressed, confused, scared or angry during a crisis. Talking to people you trust can help. Contact your friends and family.
2. Reasonable sleep diet
If you must stay at home, maintain a healthy lifestyle – including proper diet, sleep, exercise and social contacts with loved ones at home and by email and phone with other family and friends.
3. Stay away from stimulants
Don’t use smoking, alcohol or other drugs to deal with your emotions. If you feel overwhelmed, talk to a health worker or counsellor. Have a plan, where to go to and how to seek help for physical and mental health needs if required.
4. Update information from mainstream sources
Get the facts. Gather information that will help you accurately determine your risk so that you can take reasonable precautions. Find a credible source you can trust such as WHO website or, a local or state public health agency.
5. Reduce time for TV and communication channels
Limit worry and agitation by lessening the time you and your family spend watching or listening to media coverage that you perceive as upsetting.
6. Apply emotional management methods
Draw on skills you have used in the past that have helped you to manage previous life’s adversities and use those skills to help you manage your emotions during the challenging time of this outbreak.
(cre: WHO)
