Covid-19: How to keep your anxiety in check

South African Depression and Anxiety Group (Sadag) has launched a daily Facebook Expert Chat where the public can speak to a mental health professional live on their Facebook page from 1pm to 2pm every day for the rest of this week (30 March to 4 April).

Each expert will be able to answer any questions related to mental health, symptoms, treatment, FAQs, self-help tips etc, to help you take care of your mental health during Covid- 19 lockdown.

On 31 March the topic discussed was ‘Surviving the anxiety of a nationwide lockdown’ with counselling psychologist, Charity Mkone.

The most highlighted issue was people struggling to control their anxiety due to self-isolation and the constant updates about coronavirus on the news and basically everywhere else (social media, adverts etc.)

Mkone said, “It is important to note that this is indeed a very difficult time for everyone across the world and that this is an external, global event that no one has control over. It does, however, mean that at this time, those with mental health issues will find it particularly difficult to cope with this.”

Here is a summary of tips that Mkone provided to help you deal with anxiety during this difficult time:

• Communicate your feelings as much as you can with either a professional or someone you trust.
• Continue to do your usual routine while adhering to the social distance rules.
• Call Sadag to speak to a counsellor, they may advise or provide details of a psychologist.
• As much as it is important to keep updated on the virus, try to not watch the news as much, you are allowed to take a breather by listening to music or watching your favourite programmes.
• If it is really bad, visit a phycologist to prescribe medication for you.

” Remember to think about the things that are in your control right now and try to let go of the things that are not in your sphere of control. This may help you to stay calm and sane during this very difficult time,” she advised.

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