Change Your World Week Fall 2022 (Archived)

Covid anxiety is anxiety that is related to the Covid 19 virus. Many Americans struggle with anxiety that is related to the Covid 19 pandemic. With having to quarantine, isolate yourself, and live in fear of receiving the virus, this has caused a spike in anxiety for Americans all over. Other factors causing a rise in anxiety include, worrying about how the pandemic will last, altered daily routines, and the worry about financial issues that relate to receiving the virus and being laid off work. 

 It has been reported that there has been at least a 50% increase in those that suffer from anxiety, due to the pandemic. It has severely affected those in the age group of 18-25, with a report of about 60% suffering from covid related anxiety. 

1. Focus On Things You Can Control: Sometimes stress can come in different ways and bring anxiety to you. Dealing with the uncontrollable could be one of the most stressful feelings to deal with. When dealing with this it's important to Focus on the things you can control. Here are a few ways that could help:

• Washing your hands throughout the day.
• Wearing a mask in a big crowd of people.
• Getting quality sleep for a quality amount of time.
• Eating a balanced and clean diet.
• Learn to accept the fact that you aren't in control.

       2.   Stay Connected: For a lot of people when dealing with anxiety often go into isolation to deal with and cope with their problems. It is important that you stay connected to your loved ones, and friends when anxiety hits. Friends and family often have open ears and hearts to help you with your problems and feelings. 

      3. Distance Yourself from social media: Although social media can connect you to family and friends; it also can feed anxiety-inducing thoughts. Here are a few ways to start distancing yourself from social media. 

• Put a limit on your scroll time
• Delete social media apps off device from time to time 
• Try to be aware of the things you are letting your brain consume. 

     4. Practice Deep Breathing: Your autonomic nervous system triggers the Fight, or Flight response associated with anxiety. Taking a deep breath helps reconnect you with your body and mind, which can reduce this response. If you need a little help setting a breathing cadence, try the free iBreathe app or meditation apps such as Headspace that include deep breathing exercises.