Practical Steps To Calm Anxiety and Worry In Uncertain Times
How do you remain calm, continue self-care, and really deal with the stress, anxiety and worry in life, and especially in times like this when COVID-19 is disrupting our lives in such a dramatic way?
On the podcast I interviewed Ed Weiss, THM, MC, PHD. a good friend, a pastor, and a therapist who has counseled me personally in the past and who knows how to deal with depression & anxiety.
Ed really opened up about his own personal self-care routines that enable him to do his job. He also gives some really practical advice for dealing with the stress that we are all facing today.
Ed’s 7 Tips
1. You are not alone. Most people are experiencing some level of anxiety right now. Those naturally anxious people are hit the hardest.
2. Pace your media consumption. The sudden and near-constant stream of news reports about an outbreak can cause anyone to feel worried. Seek information updates and practical guidance at specific times during the day.
3. Be clear about what you can and can’t control. Then focus on things you can control. Whatever has the power to hold your focus has the power to dominate everything in your life. So don’t fixate on only the COVID 19 story. Be intentional about what you give your focus.
4. Avoid fear conversations. Stay connected, but when you do connect with others be intentional and try to reduce anxiety by talking about things other than the current crisis. Fear evokes fear so practice intentional calm.
5. Find opportunities to share positive and hopeful stories of positive developments and people who have recovered or who have supported a loved one.
6. Be mindful of your messages and modeling around young people. Kids will pick up on your anxiety so manage your anxiety. Children will observe adults’ behaviors and emotions for cues on how to manage their own emotions during difficult times so be intentional about your own energy focus etc.
7. Remember to be kind and compassionate. COVID-19 has and is likely to affect people from many countries, in many geographical locations. Do not attach it to any ethnicity or nationality. Be empathetic to all those who are affected, in and from any country. People who are affected by Covid-19 have not done anything wrong, and they deserve our support, compassion and kindness.
To find out more about Ed and the sites he mentioned, you can visit https://www.thirdspacemind.ca/counselling and https://www.thehouseonline.ca/
Bio:
Ed Weiss, THM, MC, PHD. Ed has been working with youth and young adults for over 36 years.
Ed founded Reach Out Youth Ministries, a non-profit organization that provides counselling and care to young people struggling to navigate through the challenges of an extended adolescent journey. Identity development is a major component of The Long and Twisting Path to Adulthood. Ed has been effective in helping many young adults with their identity formation.
Ed’s community contributions include his partnership in establishment of The House, as well as being one of the founding directors of Third Space. He serves at the campus of UBCO as a therapist in partnership with Third Space MIND and the Student Union.