5 ways to handle stress during the COVID-19 pandemic

Stay positive with our top tips and share them with your employees as well.

Wednesday, Apr 15, 2020
2 min read

The COVID-19 outbreak changed life for all of us very quickly. Though vaccines offer hope of returning to the pre-pandemic normal, it may be several months before vaccine shots are widely administered.

After a year of uncertainty, it’s understandable if you’re feeling worried, sad, or anxious. But there are ways to help ease these feelings.

To do so, we’ve compiled 5 tips for handling stress during this difficult time. Try them for yourself and share them with your staff.

Limit your intake of news

If reading or listening to the daily news causes you to feel more stressed, avoid doing so frequently.

Don't block out the news completely. But you may benefit from limiting the time spent reading articles on COVID-19 or watching news bulletins. It may be helpful to turn off any breaking-news alerts on your phone, too.

It’s also worth remembering that not all news is trustworthy. Don't believe everything you read on the social media. Stick to credible news sources.

Stay connected to friends and family

When you’re feeling low or worried, talking to your family and friends can help brighten your mood. If you can’t see them, give them a call, arrange a video chat, or drop them a text.

You may also want to reconnect with old friends or colleagues during this time. Talking to someone who knows you well can help comfort you.

Stay active

Although gyms are closed and social distancing rules are in place, you can still work out. There are loads of online exercise classes that you can join from home.

If you’re fit and healthy, you can still leave your house once a day for exercise. You could go on a walk or ride your bike near your home. Just remember to keep a safe two-metre distance from other people.

Get enough sleep

A restful night’s sleep can make all the difference to your mood. Experts recommend getting around seven to eight hours sleep every night.

If you find it tough to switch off before bed, you could try taking a bath, reducing your screen time, and drinking herbal teas, such as Chamomile. If you can, try to go to bed at a similar time every night to help maintain a good sleep pattern.

Start a new hobby

Activities you enjoy can help to take your mind off the current situation—even if it’s only for an hour or two. So, pick up a book, start a puzzle or try a new recipe.

You could even use this time to develop a new skill. If you’ve always wanted to learn a new language, for example, there are loads of online classes and apps that can help you achieve this goal.

If you’re missing your old social life, there are many ways for you to stay connected. There are online pub quizzes you could take part in or free theatre performances you could watch online.

Not a BrightHR client yet?

To learn more about how our software can help you manage your business and staff during the COVID-19 pandemic, call us today: (1) 888-220-4924.


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