There is so much going on in the world around us. We are seeing cultural shifts and changing political landscapes across the globe from Hong Kong to the United States. Plus, we are in the midst of a global pandemic, fighting a virus that has significantly changed how most of us live our daily lives. And we still don’t know a lot about it yet.
**Please note that this is not intended to be a commentary on the political landscape and we kindly request that you keep any political opinions to yourself and instead focus on the main purpose of the piece, coping with change.**
Coping with Change Can Cause Increased Levels of Stress
It may feel as though the world is throwing more at us than we feel capable of handling right now. And if you feel that way, you are not alone. Significant life changes, even ones you may have planned for, can cause an increase in stress levels.
Common Symptoms of Stress
The most common physical symptoms of stress may include:
- Body aches and pains
- Upset stomach, constipation and/or diarrhea
- Increased heart rate, potentially leading to chest pain and/or panic attacks
- Feeling dizzy
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- Loss of interest in things you once found enjoyable
- Loss of sex drive
- Frequent infections, such as colds or flu
The most common emotional signs of stress may include, feeling:
- Depressed
- Anxious
- Irritable
- Restless
- Overwhelmed
- Unmotivated
- Unfocused
These feelings may cause a person to:
- Have difficulty sleeping or sleep too much
- Experience unusual changes to their appetite
- Lack energy, feel tired and/or decreased activity levels
- Be unable to focus
- Have problems with their memory or problems focusing
- Worry constantly
- Experience anxiety and/or panic attacks
- Make poor decisions
- And more….
You Are Capable of Coping with Change
You are capable of coping with the change happening all around you. “You have within you, right now, everything you need to deal with whatever the world can throw at you.” – Unknown.
How to Cope with Stress and Anxiety Due to Change
Here are a few ways you can help yourself to better cope with stress and anxiety:
- Eat healthy, well-balanced meals and try to avoid snacking on junk food
- Exercise regularly, even if you can’t go to the gym
- Try to keep a consistent sleep schedule
- Stay informed by finding a reliable, trusted news source to stay up-to-date but avoid getting too much exposure
- If working from home, strive to maintain a healthy balance between work and personal time
- Use technology to connect with others when you can’t connect in person
- Build a strong support system; find people you can share your feelings with
- Seek professional help when needed
Mental Health Counseling Can Help You Cope with Change
Elemental Mental Health can help clients learn better ways to cope with stress and anxiety due to change. We offer secure online mental health counseling services to residents of Georgia, Florida, Texas, and California. Contact us to learn more.