It’s undeniable that the infamous COVID-19 has left us all disequilibrated. With uncertainty tainting practically everything around us, it took a while but many of us got used to the “unprecedented/uncertain times”. A roll out of bed to class or work seemed perpetual. But now, the month of July felt like a Band-Aid was ripped off of Calgary. Everything from vaccine distribution, to restrictions being lifted felt surreal. Now, we must relearn how to interact with day to day life because the fast paced world isn’t going to stop for anyone or anything.
From discussions I’ve had with other teenagers and young adults, the unease of interacting with many people at once or even being around large groups of people has exacerbated feelings of restlessness, anxiety, and trauma responses. Things like taking public transport or going to the mall have now become utterly alien to many people. With school starting up this fall, it won’t be easy to cope with these new realities.
Given these perplexing realities, I wanted to provide 5 simple, brief methods to help you all reduce feelings of anxiety and unease before the “dreaded” 2021-2022 school year beings and “normal life” is in full effect.
1. Meditation
Setting aside even five minutes of your time a day to meditate can go a long way. It provides both your body and mind with a well deserved break! It can be helpful for relieving stress and anxiety as well!
2. Exercise
Virtually any exercise from simply controlling your breath to going for a run is helpful for anxiety and stress relief. Your body will thank you later!
3. Schedule
Specifically for the new school year, keeping a proper schedule is a necessity to manage your time and prevent stress overload. Planners, online or physical, are the most practical option!
4. Get a buddy
Whether it is taking transit or going for a shopping trip, try going with a friend or family member if you feel anxious. When you start to feel more comfortable with your surroundings, start reverting back to your positive pre-pandemic routines.
5. Talk to someone
Expressing your worries verbally or even in a journal forces you to hear them in a different way. This can help you put the situation into perspective rather than blowing it out of proportion.
NOTE: These methods are ones that myself and others I know use but do not rely solely on them. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, or any other type of mental illness please seek professional help!
Check out this website for information on mental health services in Alberta: https://ab.211.ca/how-we-help/helplines/
I hope you all have had an enjoyable summer break so far! See you next time!
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