The coronavirus pandemic can be stressful and result in anxiety for some people. The fear of the unknown and what is going to happen can become overwhelming, resulting in emotional issues. Everyone reacts differently, so some people may be fine with social distancing, while others can experience social withdrawal symptoms, concerns about health and wellbeing, worry about finances, and so on.
Counselling can help you talk about what your concerns are and work through your stress and anxiety. It allows you to help gain insights into what you can do so you can feel more at ease. Counselling is also beneficial to help you adapt to changes in daily routines.
If you were obtaining counselling before the pandemic for stress, anxiety, or other reasons, it is essential to continue sessions using an alternative method with your counsellor.
Signs You May Be Experiencing Stress
Some of the more common signs that you are experiencing stress could include:
- Insomnia or Difficulty Sleeping
- Loss of Appetite or Stress Eating
- Increased Use of Tobacco, Recreational Cannabis, or Alcohol
- Shortened Tempers
- Fear of Your Health or the Health of Your Family
Things You Can Do to Help in Between Counselling Sessions
There are several things you can do to help alleviate stress and anxiety in between counselling sessions such as:
- Take a Hot Soaking Bath: Soaking in a hot bath can help alleviate stress and anxiety. Light some scented candles and just sit back, relax, and clear your mind.
- Vary Your Routine: Sticking to normal routines may not be the best approach right now. Try to vary up your routine by doing things you enjoy, like reading, putting jigsaws together, arts, crafts, cooking, and so on.
- Eat Healthy and Balanced Meals: Try to stick to a healthy diet as best as possible. With shortages on certain food products, consider alternatives, like frozen vegetables instead of fresh.
- Exercise: Exercise can do wonders to alleviate stress and anxiety. Even though fitness centres are closed, you can exercise at home. Walk up and down the stairs, jog in place, do sit up or pushups, and so on.
- Schedule Time Outdoors: Make sure to get plenty of fresh air. Just because you cannot go out doesn’t mean you have to stay inside 24/7. Spend time on your patio, garden or backyard. If you have a dog, you can still go out for walks, you just need to make sure to keep your distance from others.
- Connect with Friends and Family: Use Skype, Facetime or other video apps to stay in contact with friends and family.
While we adapt to social distancing and having to remain at home more often, distance counselling can be beneficial. Even though you cannot go see a counsellor in person, there are options for counselling sessions over the phone or via video conferencing, like Skype or Facetime.
To schedule a distance counselling session for individuals or couples, please feel free to contact Toronto individual and couples counsellor, Ellen Starr at 416-488-3102 today!
