Everyone is talking about Covid-19 right now. Some people are panicking and making things worse, but the reality is that this is the topic of conversation and it is on everyone's minds right now. I thought I would write a post as someone who struggles with anxiety and how this is affecting me and some things I'm finding helpful right now.
First of all, I'm trying to stay calm and not worry. I know that God is in control and fear only robs me of my joy today. That being said there are real concerns and I'm also doing my best to be wise and make thoughtful decisions for myself and my family. I'm rarely on social media these days and I'm finding that to be really really helpful for myself. I think it's causing our focus to be on covid constantly and I know there is helpful and encouraging information out there, but I'd rather think less about all of it right now as it's on my mind enough as it is. I encourage you that if you notice being on social media is causing more anxiety and stress to get rid of it for a time.
I think the social isolation part of this whole thing is what stresses me out the most and I think it's so important to be in community as we go through this. I'm going to be setting up phone/Facetime dates with friends so that even if we can't see each other in person, we can be encouraging one another and spending time together in conversation.
I'm also trying to continue to have a positive and thankful attitude about what is going on. Thankful that I can spend more time with my family, thankful that I can have some time at home to get stuff done around the house, thankful that in this country I will most likely continue to have access to food and health care if I need it. I realize there are real concerns about finances, health, etc. Believe me, most of these affect and concern me too but I'm trying to focus on what I can be thankful about in this time instead of worrying and complaining about what I can't control.
I have moments of worry and panic and as someone who has a compromised immune system, I do worry about my health. I worry that the hospitals will become overcrowded and I may not get the help that I need if I need it. But I know that these are future worries and they only give me anxiety and fear today and do not add anything to my life. These may never be concerns for me and if they are, I once again know that God is in control and He will care for me as needed. He has always supplied for my needs and I know He will continue to do so.
I want to also be generous and caring to those who are worried and possibly in need during this time. I will not be hoarding things in my cupboard, but will be giving what I have to my friends and neighbours if they are in need. I do not need things to be sitting in my cupboard while others are in need. And if the time comes when I need those things again, I believe God will provide what I need. I encourage others to do the same. So please message me if you are in need of anything and maybe I can help!
I'm reading a book right now on healthy rhythms and how to better deal with anxiety by Rebekah Lyons. It's been really helpful and it's keeping my perspective on what is important and how to deal with my anxiety in a healthy way. It's been a great read so far and I highly recommend it. I also want to keep my focus on things that are giving me hope and joy and not filling me with fear and worry. I am thinking about listening to a sermon or a podcast each day to keep my thoughts away from covid-19.
I just wanted to share some of my coping strategies right now and I'm praying that anyone who reads this is given hope and encouragement. This time will pass and let's focus on how we can live fully even during this difficult time. Praying for you all and wishing you all good health <3
This quote popped up on my FB feed memories from 2011 yesterday and I thought it was quite fitting. "The fear of death follows from the fear of life. A man who lives fully is prepared to die at any time." Let's all continue to live fully even in this scary time.
