How to cope with anxiety during the uncertainty of the Corona Virus pandemic (for Parents)

What is Worry? 

Thinking ahead normally allows us to plan, which helps us to achieve our goals. However, worrying occurs when you think ahead, and it leaves you feeling anxious. Often, you might think about worst-case scenarios

What does worry feel like? 

An uncontrollable chain of thoughts that get progressively worse

Worry can show up in physical form too by way of muscle pains, difficulty in breathing and sleeping, tiring easily and lessened appetite.

When does worrying become a problem? 

When you are left feeling demoralised, panicked, exhausted and overwhelmed

What can you do? 

Find a balance of activity: activities which bring you pleasure, a sense of achievement and closeness to your loved ones (e.g. planting seeds, cooking, mending items, cleaning, writing, playing a game)

Identify what type of worry you have: is it hypothetical or real? Hypothetical concerns are things that don’t exist and could happen: Real concerns are problems you are facing right now.

Reminders of how amazing you are:  remind yourself that you are doing a great job at taking care of yourselves and your family during this hard time.