Tips for Dealing with Stress and Uncertainty
Uncertain times can be difficult. From mental health to work-life balance, shifts in your routine can cause major disruptions.
With the help of CuraLinc, American Fidelity’s Employee Assistance Program partner, we’ve put together tips to help you manage the days ahead.
Coping with Worry and Tension
Stress can cause physical, emotional, and behavioral issues that negatively affect your health and relationships. From insomnia to high blood pressure, stress can even result in health disorders. To help manage your emotional wellbeing, it’s important to focus on relaxation.
Here are some exercises to try when you feel overwhelmed:
- Schedule time to meditate, perform breathing exercises, or go for a walk
- Remember to take short breaks
- Make plans—Remember, it’s okay if you can’t fit everything into your schedule
- Break major tasks into smaller accomplishments
- Read a book, listen to music, or write in a journal
Working from Home
If your company has shifted to remote work, you may be struggling to get comfortable with your new workspace. From children to chores, there are many possible distractions. And, often, the isolation can produce negative side effects.
To help you find success while working from home, consider these tips:
- Set a routine and stick to it
- Schedule time in your day for breaks
- Designate an office space and rearrange it frequently for a new perspective
- If children are home, designate a play or educational area for them
- Get up and be active during breaks
- Reach out to your coworkers to maintain important connections
Supporting Mental Health
Fear and anxiety can create strong emotions in adults and children. And during uncertain times, it can be especially difficult to maintain a positive outlook. Because stress and anxiety can lead to serious mental health issues and conditions, it’s important to look for ways to keep the anxiety at bay.
Here are some tips for supporting yourself and others:
- Avoid excessive exposure to media coverage or social media
- Stretch, meditate, exercise, and get plenty of sleep
- Schedule time to unwind or enjoy hobbies
- Connect with others and talk about your feelings
- Remind yourself that strong feelings will fade, and try to think positively
- Focus on what you know to be certain instead of what is uncertain
- Speak with child(ren) about their feelings, and share facts they can understand
- Reassure child(ren) that they are safe, and limit their exposure to media coverage
- Help child(ren) establish a sense of structure
During social distancing and isolation, it can be difficult to think about the future. But, you don’t have to do it alone. Reach out to others for important connections and talk with your employer about assistance services that may be available to you.
This blog is up to date as of April 2020 and has not been updated for changes in the law, administration or current events.