It’s no secret that the pandemic has seriously impacted everyone, and it’s not surprising that many people are struggling with post-pandemic stress disorder (PPSD).
The world is reeling from the effects of post-pandemic stress disorder (PPSD). While the virus has now been contained, many people still struggle to cope with the stress and anxiety that comes with it.
While trying and tough it out may be tempting, you can do plenty of simple things to help manage PPSD and get your life back on track.
If you’re struggling with PPSD, read on to find out the 8 tips to help you get through the tough times.
What is Post-Pandemic Stress Disorder?
Post-pandemic stress disorder is a psychological condition that can develop after a public health emergency, such as the 2009 H1N1 influenza pandemic or the most recent Covid-19.
People with post-pandemic stress disorder may experience anxiety, irritability, and restlessness. They may have difficulty concentrating and sleeping and constantly feel on edge.
Symptoms of Post-Pandemic Stress Disorder
Symptoms of post-pandemic stress disorder (PPSD) can include:
1. Difficulty Concentrating or Feeling “Foggy”
Post-pandemic stress disorder (PPSD) can be a very debilitating condition. It is characterized by intense anxiety and worries, difficulty concentrating, and feeling “foggy.”
In some cases, people may also experience inappropriate crying or mood swings. PPSD can significantly impact the individual’s ability to function at work or school and their overall quality of life.
2. Insomnia or Other Changes in Sleep Patterns
Post-pandemic anxiety and stress disorder is a real and serious health concern. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported that about 20% of the US population experience post-pandemic stress.
This includes people directly affected by the pandemic (e.g., family members or friends who have contracted influenza/COVID) and indirectly affected (e.g., those whose work or daily routines have been disrupted).
Insomnia or other changes in sleep patterns are common during times of stress.
These changes can include increased restless nights, difficulty falling asleep, problems staying asleep or waking up often during the night.
Sleep deprivation can also lead to feelings of anxiety and depression, which can make post-pandemic stress even worse.
3. Irritability or Anger
Some people may experience irritability or anger as part of their PPSD symptoms.
Persistent irritability or anger can signify that you are struggling with mental health during this time.
If you are experiencing persistent irritability or anger, you must talk to your doctor about it.
4. Sadness or Hopelessness
Sadness or hopelessness are common symptoms of PPSD. People with PPSD may feel overwhelmed and out of control and have difficulty concentrating or sleeping.
Effective therapies include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps people change their negative thinking patterns, and mindfulness meditation, which helps people focus on their present moment.
5. Anxiousness or Worry
Since the pandemic became public knowledge, many people have become anxious or worried about the spread. This type of anxiety, known as post-pandemic stress disorder (PPSD), is a common reaction to any traumatic event.
PPSD can make people feel overwhelmed, restless, and stressed out. It is important to remember that PPSD is only a temporary reaction and will eventually resolve independently.
6. Flashbacks or Intrusive Thoughts About the Pandemic
Intrusive thoughts and flashbacks about the pandemic characterize PPSD.
These symptoms can significantly interfere with daily life and work. The good news is that PPSD can be treated effectively with medications and psychological therapies.
7. Avoidance of People or Places That Remind You of the Pandemic
Individuals with PPSD may avoid people or places that remind them of the pandemic to reduce their susceptibility to stress further.
8. Aches and Pains With No Clear Physical Cause
Post-pandemic stress disorder (PPSD) is characterized by symptoms such as persistent aches and pains without a clear physical cause. PPSD can be very debilitating, causing people to feel like they can’t function normally.
9. Loss of Interest in Activities You Used to Enjoy
Individuals with PPSD may also experience a loss of interest in activities they used to enjoy. This can be particularly challenging for those who must take time off from work or school to care for loved ones during the pandemic.
10. Feeling “on Edge” or Like You’re in Danger
Symptoms may include: feeling “on edge” or like you’re in danger; increased anxiety, irritability, and difficulty concentrating; feeling like you can’t stop thinking about the virus; difficulty sleeping or staying asleep; and changes in eating habits or weight.
PPSD treatment typically includes medication and therapy. Medication may include antidepressants, beta-blockers, or antihistamines.
Causes of Post-Pandemic Stress Disorder
Various events and experiences can cause post-pandemic stress disorder (PPSD). However, some of the factors that are often associated with PPSD include: feeling overwhelmed by the pandemic, feeling like you are unable to cope with the situation, worrying about your safety and that of loved ones, experiencing difficulty sleeping or concentrating, feeling out of control or overwhelming feelings of guilt or shame.
How to Deal With Post-Pandemic Stress Disorder?
Here are 8 tips to help you deal with PPSD
1. Talk to Someone
PPSD can be a tough experience, and knowing where to turn for help can be hard. If you’re overwhelmed by PPSD, talking to a friend, family member, therapist or support group can be helpful. They can provide you with support and tools to help you deal with the symptoms of PPSD.
2. Exercise
There is mounting evidence that exercise can reduce anxiety and stress.
In healthy people, regular exercise has been linked to reducing cortisol levels and improving mood.
Additionally, in people with anxiety or depression, exercise has been shown to improve symptoms. This is likely because exercise releases endorphins, hormones that positively affect mood.
Given these findings, it makes sense that people with post-pandemic stress disorder should also benefit from regular exercise.
Exercise has been shown to help reduce symptoms of both anxiety and depression, so it would be a great way to improve the health of those struggling with post-pandemic stress disorder and maintain their overall well-being.
3. Eat a Balanced Diet
Post-pandemic stress disorder (PPSD) is a serious condition that can develop after any global pandemic. High levels of anxiety, stress, and worry characterize PPSD. People with PPSD often have difficulty concentrating, sleeping, and following normal routines.
To help manage PPSD, eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables is important.
Ensure you don’t overdo processed foods or sugary drinks, which can contribute to weight gain and other health problems.
Exercise regularly to reduce stress and improve your overall physical health.
4. Get Enough Sleep
Getting enough sleep is crucial for both your mental and physical health. For example, getting 7 hours of sleep each night can help improve your mood and decrease your anxiety.
Additionally, getting enough sleep can help you stay healthy physically by helping you feel energized during the day and reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases.
If you struggle to get enough sleep, you can do a few things to help.
First, make sure that your bed is comfortable and dark. Try avoiding watching television or working on electronic devices before bedtime if possible.
Second, try not to spend too much time worrying or thinking about the pandemic.
Finally, remember there is no “right” way to deal with PPSD. What works for one person may not work for another.
Talk with your doctor or therapist about how you should best cope with PPSD.
5. Take a Break
Taking a break can help to relieve the stress and allow the individual to return to their normal routine more easily.
6. Stay Positive
People who suffer from PPSD can find it hard to concentrate and make decisions. It can be challenging to get out and do activities you enjoy, as your mind constantly worries about whether or not you’ll contract the virus.
However, it’s important to remember that PPSD is just a reaction to a stressful event. It doesn’t mean that you are weak or unworthy of love. Many people suffer from PPSD and still manage to get on with their lives.
The key is to keep your spirits high, take things one step at a time, and remember that everything will eventually work out.
7. Connect with Others
There are a few things to remember when managing post-pandemic stress disorder (PPSD).
First, it’s important to be proactive in seeking out support. Joining a support group or talking with friends can be helpful.
Second, it’s also important to focus on your well-being. Taking care of yourself by getting enough sleep, exercising, and eating healthy can help you feel physically and emotionally better.
Third, it’s important to remember that PPSD is a condition that will vary from person to person. So don’t hesitate to talk about how you feel with your doctor or therapist.?
8. Seek Professional Help
PPSD can be difficult to treat, and it may be best to seek professional help if none of the tips above work for you.
A therapist can help you deal with PPSD holistically; you may also find medication helpful.
Conclusion
Post-pandemic stress disorder is a serious and common disorder that impacts many people’s management of anxiety.
As mentioned earlier, it affects nearly 10% of the US population. While there are no reliable statistics about how many people worldwide suffer from this disorder, it appears widespread all over.
To deal with these feelings, try following lifestyle changes, including healthy habits and negative thinking patterns that could help you cope with such complex emotions healthily.
It is also important to seek professional help to get the best treatment.
FAQs | How To Cope With The Emotional Toll Of A Pandemic?
What are some psychological problems associated with the coronavirus disease?
Coronavirus sickness causes a significant amount of psychological stress. This anxiety may result from a dread of the condition, a lack of knowledge, or a sense of helplessness. Stress can manifest as problems sleeping, headaches, muscular tightness, and feeling overwhelmed or out of control. It is crucial to remember that stress is a natural response to challenging conditions, and there are ways to manage it.
How can I relieve stress, worry, and fear during the COVID-19 pandemic?
If you’re anything like most people, you’re probably feeling a bit stressed out and anxious about the COVID-19 pandemic. Well, there’s no need to worry – there are plenty of ways that you can relieve stress, worry, and fear during the pandemic.
Here are a few tips:
1. Take time for yourself – Whether you want to walk, take a bath, or read a book, take time daily to relax and de-stress.
2. Connect with friends and family – Whether you’re talking on the phone, FaceTiming, or IMing, connect with friends and family regularly. This will help you stay connected and keep in touch while the pandemic continues.
3. Stay positive – It’s easy to get caught up in the stress of the pandemic and lose sight of what’s important. Keep your spirits high by focusing on the good things in life – your relationships, your health, etc.
4. Take care of yourself emotionally and physically – Eat balanced meals, get enough sleep, and exercise regularly. These simple things will help you maintain your health and well-being during the pandemic.
Hopefully, these tips will help ease some of your stress during COVID-19!
How do you stay calm down during the coronavirus pandemic?
You may do some things to maintain your composure throughout the coronavirus epidemic. Try to be educated, but do not overwhelm yourself with data. Ensure that you receive sufficient rest and consume nutritious foods. Take some time for relaxation and de-stressing. And if you begin to feel overwhelmed, discuss it with someone.
How can I take care of my emotional health during the coronavirus pandemic?
During the coronavirus pandemic, the best strategy to maintain emotional health is to stay educated but not overwhelmed, maintain relationships with loved ones, and find strategies to handle stress. It is essential to remember that everyone is coping with this in their way; therefore, it is necessary to be empathetic and supportive of others.
Why is it important to be mindful of the amount and quality of the news during the COVID-19 pandemic?
During the COVID-19 epidemic, it is crucial to be attentive to the quantity and quality of the news since it might damage your mental health. It is essential to obtain correct information from trustworthy sources to make informed judgments. Anxiety and worry can result from too much or misleading news. Additionally, taking vacations from the news and spending time with loved ones is essential.
Sources
- PubMed: The Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic
- PubMed: Why the COVID-19 pandemic is a traumatic stressor
- PubMed: COVID Stress Syndrome: Clinical and Nosological Considerations
- Weill Cornell Medicine: Coping with PTSD from the COVID-19 Pandemic
- Health Matters: Understanding PTSD in Uncertain Times
- PubMed Central: Life in a post-pandemic world: What to expect of anxiety-related conditions and their treatment
- Reuters: Fact Check-‘Post-pandemic stress disorder’ not caused by COVID-19 vaccines
- FSHealth: “Post-Pandemic Stress Disorder” and Coping with a New Normal
- Psychiatric Times: Post-COVID Stress Disorder: Another Emerging Consequence of the Global Pandemic
- Vogue: What Is Post-Pandemic Stress Disorder? How to Spot the Signs, and What to Do Next
Featured Photo by Gabriella Clare Marino on Unsplash
Editor’s Note: When reading a health article, it is important to remember that the information presented is not meant to replace advice from a doctor. Every person’s body is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. Be sure to consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet or lifestyle.
