Although many businesses are starting to open and people have started getting out and about, many are still struggling with financial stress and anxiety due to COVID-19. We have all been dealing with change and adjusting to new ways of life during the pandemic, and it has taken a toll on both mental and physical health just from the stress alone. We want to provide you with some ideas to help you cope as you’re going through a stressful, unpredictable time.
- Find control: With the uncertainty of the times, it can leave many of us feeling out of control, which can further increase our stress and anxiety. Focus on tasks that are within your control. This can include household tasks, cooking a meal, doing a project, and even making a to do list.
- Maintain a routine: For many of us, it’s been easy to lose the rhythm of routine. Whether you’re working from home or currently not working, stay on top of your normal routine. Go to sleep and wake at consistent times each day, take a morning shower, get dressed, and make yourself a good meal. Whatever your routine is, hold on to that consistency.
- Manage your spending: Whether you’re currently working or receiving unemployment, manage your spending habits. Because of social distancing, we might feel more of a temptation to shop online. However, with such unpredictability, do not overspend. Keep your savings for emergencies only and manage your monthly budget.
- Use local resources: If you’re struggling financially, look into any extra emergency assistance available in your area due to COVID. If you’re not sure where to go, you can always call your local United Way or Government office to see what assistance may be available in the area for your specific needs.
- Communicate with your creditors: If you can’t keep up with your creditors, do not take out other loans to help, especially payday loans. Do not avoid speaking to your creditors either as avoidance can worsen the stress you already feel. Communicate with your creditors. Let them know what’s going on and that you’ve been affected by COVID.
- Establish a self-care routine: What are the things that help calm you or help take your mind off the state of the world? Make a list of these things that mean a lot to you and your personal self-care. Do at least one thing daily from this list to help provide positive distractions and alleviate stress.
- Seek counseling: Whether you need financial counseling or mental health counseling, there are professionals out there who can speak to you and help you with your situation.
Remember, you are not alone in this, and the stress and fear you are feeling is a normal response to what is occurring. For further tips on managing stress and other available resources, please refer to the links provided below.
Sources:
https://www.ptsd.va.gov/appvid/mobile/COVID_coach_app.asp
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/managing-stress-anxiety.html