The pandemic poses a lot of problems. We are inundated with media and rumors about COVID-19. It’s hard to know what’s true and what isn’t. There are some reliable news sources, but you may be tempted to listen to the opinions of friends and family. It’s good to fact check when you hear what’s going on. Otherwise, it can cause anxiety. But knowing is better than not knowing. Ignorance is not bliss. Here is why checking in to what’s going on with the pandemic helps your mental health.
It alleviates your anxiety
People who have chronic anxiety disorders may suffer during the pandemic more than others. COVID-19 makes all of us anxious, but those with anxiety may feel a spike in their symptoms. That’s why knowing what’s going on can help. You need to educate yourself with the right information so that you don’t worry. Those who have generalized anxiety disorder tend to worry about most things. So it’s important to look into what’s going on with the pandemic, so you know what to look out for. Maybe you’re worried about having symptoms of Covid. Perhaps you were nervous about going to certain places. You may be scared to have your children go to school. It’s crucial to find out what’s going on with Covid so that your anxiety can lessen.
It assists with depression
When you’re socially distancing, it’s natural to feel down or depressed. You may not see an end in sight. You may want to isolate yourself from looking at the news. That’s understandable, but it does not help your mental health. It’s important to educate yourself on the symptoms of Covid and what’s going on. You need to know what businesses or institutions are closed. That way, you don’t feel down because you might not be aware that other things are open. You might think that everything is shut down, and businesses are starting to open up. Knowing that there is access to certain community resources can lessen your depression.
It empowers you
One of the unfortunate aspects of the pandemic is that many of us feel helpless. When you get information about what’s going on in society, it can be empowering. That’s why it’s encouraging to look at the news because you can inform friends and family about what’s going on. You feel like you’re doing a service to others. Feeling useful is a good thing. It’s especially helpful for those of us that have lost our jobs. Because you may feel like you’re sitting around feeling down, but when you educate yourself, you can tell your friends and family what sources you have read about the pandemic, and it makes you feel powerful.
Online therapy and COVID
Online therapy is a great place to talk about what’s going on with the pandemic. You have a dedicated counselor who cares about your feelings. You can share what you know about the pandemic with them, and they can provide you with a sounding board to talk about your feelings. All of us want to be heard. If you’re curious about learning more about your mental health, there are resources I can help you. You’re not alone during this crazy time. And if you need therapy, don’t be afraid to reach out for help.
BIO
Marie Miguel has been a writing and research expert for nearly a decade, covering a variety of health- related topics. Currently, she is contributing to the expansion and growth of a free online mental health resource with Mind-Diagnostics.org. With an interest and dedication to addressing stigmas associated with mental health, she continues to specifically target subjects related to anxiety and depression.
