How to Deal With Traumatic Stress in Times of Coronavirus?

Believe it or not, but if you are feeling traumatic stress following a disturbing event, then it is perfectly normal. It could be anything ranging from a traffic accident to a global pandemic that can cause traumatic stress. 

You may feel intense shock, confusion, and fear, or overwhelmed or even numb. If you are feeling any of these emotions during the stressful times of COVID’19, then there is nothing wrong with you. There are millions of people out there in a similar situation. To fight back traumatic stress, first, you’ve to validate your feelings. 

Here are some tips that will help you come through these stressful and chaotic times:

Prioritize Your Media Exposure 

Traumatic stress can be triggered by the frequent exposure of traumatizing and disturbing news. You may not realize it when you are watching TV or using social media for the source of information, but at a cellular level, you are being affected. So, make sure you set your priorities straight when it comes to media exposure and avoid triggering content.

Learn to Accept Your Feelings 

The first step of healing from any type of stress or depression is accepting your ailment with an open heart. You need to validate your feelings and tell yourself that it is okay to feel overwhelmed, and you’ll get through this phase of your life as well. 

Seek Shelter in Catharsis 

No matter what people keep telling you, you should do whatever puts your mind at ease. If you find your peace in cooking, doing exercise, or painting, etc. then do it. But, if you are not feeling like doing anything and you find it comforting, then it’s also okay. Just do whatever you find cathartic.  

Reach Out to Others 

 One of the best ways to fight back the traumatic stress is to reach out to others like you. You don’t even have to reveal your identity to do so. DOE provides a platform that allows you to share your stories anonymously. So, you can write your heart out and reach out to others who are suffering just like you and give them hope that they are not alone in this.