In the midst of the outbreak and spread of Coronavirus, or COVID-19 you would be forgiven for feeling afraid and overwhelmed by the volume of changing information and advice at every turn. Suddenly we are expected to change our well established routines and behaviours and tolerate a higher degree of uncertainty. None of this comes easily to habit loving humans.

I wonder what situation you are in as you read this. Are you self-isolating wondering how the days will pass? Have you been told to work from home and feeling some relief from the dreaded commute? Are you reluctantly cancelling that longed for and much needed holiday? Are you separated from loved ones and unsure when you will see them next? Are you worried about those at risk, perhaps elderly relatives? Are you worried about your own risk; personal, financial or otherwise? Have you washed your hands a million times today? Have you stared at the empty supermarket aisles in mild panic or bewilderment? Perhaps you are a frontline healthcare professional with your own anxieties to contain?

If you can relate to any of the above then you can rest assured that you are not alone, even though we can feel more alone than ever when disaster strikes. So how do we stay sane when the World seems to have gone mad and we are surrounded by news of threat and danger?

You do not have to keep calm and carry on. It’s understandable this is a difficult and anxious time. Be kind to yourself about this.
Set some boundaries around what news and information you want to consume and when. Absolutely do not have the news on repeat in the background. Choose your sources wisely. The same goes for how much you talk about it. Make space for other conversations.
Continue to do things that bring you pleasure even if some things may not be on the menu right now.
Sort out in your mind the things that you can do something about and the things that you can’t. For the things you can; problem solve and put your solution into practice. For the things you can’t; refocus by consciously shifting your attention to something more helpful (tip: use all your senses. Scents and music can be a big help. TV is often too passive).
Stay connected to friends and family and to yourself. Share love and care and fun because we need that more than ever when times get tough.

By Dr Natalie Bodart, Director & Clinical Psychologist