Ways to reduce stress during the coronavirus pandemic

Stress is a common response to tough events or situations, and the coronavirus pandemic is an unprecedented challenge that is placing many of us under a lot of strain.

Some stress is normal and stress itself is not anxiety or depression. However, severe and ongoing stress can be a risk factor for mental health conditions if it persists. During this worrying and challenging time, managing your stress levels should be a priority. 

Ways to reduce stress

Postpone major life change

Making major changes in your life can be stressful at any time, but this is especially relevant at the moment. If you’re already feeling stressed or anxious, it’s best to avoid or delay significant events if possible. If you’ve had to cancel or postpone important events due to the coronavirus pandemic, try to keep things in perspective and remember that this time will pass and normal life will resume.

Resolve personal conflicts

Stress in personal relationships can be a major contributor to anxiety and depression, and any issues may be under the magnifying glass while we’re all being asked to stay at home. Learning how to communicate honestly with people and address problems or conflicts as they arise is important. A counsellor or psychologist can help you find ways to work through your problems.  

Relationships Australia is another great resource and they are continuing to deliver services through telephone, online and videoconferencing – not face-to-face – during the coronavirus pandemic. The relationships section of the Beyond Blue forums also contains a lot of valuable advice and personal stories from other people who are dealing with relationship issues.

Do the things you enjoy

Take your mind off your worries by making sure you allow plenty of time for enjoyable activities. This could include listening to music, reading, gardening, spending time connecting with family and friends online, making your friends care packages and writing letters. Try doing something creative or learning a new craft. Starting a project, like making a gift for a friend, can provide a goal to work towards and give you a great sense of achievement when complete.

Control your workload

Work plays a big role in our lives, but it’s important to have a sustainable work-life balance, particularly if you’re working from home while trying to home school children due to the coronavirus. If work is increasing your stress levels, avoid long hours and additional responsibilities, and learn to say ‘no’ more often.

Exercise regularly

Physical exercise can help relieve tension and relax your mind. Try to do some physical exercise every day, even if it’s just going for a (social distancing-appropriate) walk around the block or doing some star jumps in your backyard. There are plenty of great online workouts available which are great for both your physical and mental health.

Get support

Simply talking to someone such as a friend, doctor or counsellor can help relieve stress. Don’t be afraid to ask for support.

Remember to relax

Incorporating breathing and muscle relaxation exercises into your daily routine may be helpful. They can also be used as short-term coping strategies. Some people find meditation or yoga a good way to unwind. 

Stay well informed

Financial hardship and redundancy

Losing your job or getting into financial difficulty are common stress triggers, and amid the coronavirus outbreak, this is happening to a lot of people. If you’re facing financial difficulties, it’s important to find out what your options are by contacting your financial counsellor or Services Australia to find out more about government provided services. 

Health concerns for yourself or a loved one

Right now, more than ever, it’s completely natural to be worried about your health and the health of your family and friends. It is important that you stay well informed and only access information from reputable sources. This will help you maintain perspective and keep stress levels in check. Beyond Blue recommends:

• Australian Government coronavirus (COVID-19) health alert
• Health Direct – Coronavirus (COVID-19) : Health Direct have also developed a COVID-19 Symptom Checker - an online, self-guided tool to help people find out if they need to seek medical help.
• smartraveller.gov.au – travel information for Australian citizens
• World Health Organisation – coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak

Try to stay calm

Do your best to stay calm and follow official advice, particularly around observing good hygiene habits and looking after your mental health.