In any given year, approximately 40 million people in the United States experience an anxiety disorder — and 1 in 13 people suffer globally.
Most recently, COVID-19 has caused increased rates of isolation and unemployment, which has taken a significant psychological toll. Health experts are concerned about these potential effects, as the nation experiences a second pandemic — one that involves overwhelming feelings of stress and anxiety.
If you can relate, you must take proactive action. One option is to take control of your mental and physical health through the art of yoga and meditation.
Although there is a long history of infectious disease, that does not make an outbreak any less stressful. As stated by Psychology Today, there are three main reasons why germ-panic impacts our psyche so strongly.
Infectious diseases are:
Related: Managing Your Mental Health During the Coronavirus
COVID-19 is no exception and the effects are being felt around the world. Due to empty store shelves, social isolation, health concerns, loss of employment, and other variables, pandemic anxiety continues to increase — but you can intervene!
Since limiting face-to-face contact is the best way to reduce the spread of COVID-19, people around the country (and globe) are staying indoors.
Both exercise and mindfulness meditation have been shown to help reduce feelings of anxiety. Yoga is the perfect solution, as this stress-reduction technique has been shown to:
The best part is, there are many styles of yoga, ranging from high-activity to relaxing options. Regardless of your level of experience, you can get started.
If you have never tried yoga before, there’s no better time than the present. By learning new things about this ancient practice, you will benefit from a healthy distraction. Here’s an excellent guide to get you started.
For those of you who are experienced, why not take this time to teach your friends and family! Zoom is a great video communication service that will allow you to connect from the comfort of each participant’s home.
You can also focus your attention on:
Remember, it’s normal to feel some level of stress and anxiety during this time. However, too much anxiety can begin to cause harm, taking a toll on your emotional and physical well-being.
In order to better cope with COVID-19 anxiety, it’s important that you take action. If you were seeing a therapist for an anxiety disorder prior to the outbreak, discuss your options regarding video therapy.
Stay connected to friends and family, help others if you can, cut back on the amount of time you spend on social media, and practice self-care. For ongoing support during the COVID-19 pandemic, please refer to these beneficial resources.
Walking through the doors of a center like Valley Oaks for the first can be tough. We work hard to make sure that your visit is easy, streamlined, and professional while still addressing your needs. The reality is that more folks are seeking help than you’d ever imagine, and for good reason. More than 80% of folks that seek help for common mental health ailments see significant improvement. Your journey to life’s peaks can start right now… and start right here… at Valley Oaks.
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