Dealing With COVID-19 Anxiety

Dear Achona,

What is the best way to deal with COVID-19 anxiety, especially when coming to school?

Dear Anonymous,

This question is at the forefront of everyone’s minds. Despite being in school for over a month, the task of maintaining COVID-19 safety still seems gargantuan. During this time of uncertainty, we must protect ourselves from the virus while simultaneously protecting our mental health. I’ve found that the best way to reduce anxiety surrounding COVID-19 is engaging in stress reduction activities, following CDC guidelines, and focusing on the positives of our new existence. Focusing on what you’re grateful for, exercising your body, and doing some meditation are all methods of centering yourself and reducing your anxiety. By following CDC guidelines, you can ensure your chances of contracting COVID-19 are greatly reduced. Even outside of school, do your best to social distance, wear a mask, and act responsibly; encourage your friends to do the same. Lastly, when you find yourself getting overwhelmed, try to focus on the positives that have come out of the COVID-19 pandemic. The lockdown has forced families and friends to become closer. The pandemic has also encouraged lifestyle changes surrounding hygiene, as more people are washing their hands. COVID-19 has also caused people to become more creative in their everyday lives and created a new wave of technology to help us adapt. If all else fails and none of these strategies work for you, try to focus on the light at the end of the tunnel; a vaccine is on its way, and there’s a possibility that this will all be over before the end of next year. Life continues to carry on, and we must do the best we can to ensure we do the same.