Omicron And It's Effect On Anxiety

It's been a long two years. It's hard to believe that the pandemic has been affecting so many people for this long. What turned into a 2 week "flatten the curve" timeline has dragged on. Although we have vaccinations now, there is still a lot of uncertainty with the pandemic.

Part of this uncertainty is that the virus is mutating. We are now dealing with a new variant called omicron. With each new variation of the virus, it seems as if we are at the beginning of the pandemic all over again. How will this affect the population? Will the vaccines be affective against the new variant? Will it mutate again?

With so much unknown, it is no surprise that Omicron is causing a lot of anxiety. In a world already filled with uncertainty, how is the new variant affecting anxiety?

Focusing On What You Can't Control

One affect of Omicron on anxiety is that many people are focusing on what they can't control. While it would be nice if we could get everyone to follow the guidelines set by officials, we can't control the actions of others. At the end of the day, all we can control is our own actions.

Wanting to control every possible outcome is a classic symptom of anxiety. As a way to know exactly what is going to happen so we don't become anxious. Unfortunately, all this does is spike anxiety even worse.

Instead, focus on what you can control - yourself. If you are doing what makes you feel most comfortable, whether it's masking, vaccines, or social distancing, know that you are doing your best in a situation that isn't great. And that's all that matters.

Worry Over Situations That May Not Apply To You

Excessive worrying can get the best of us. It's what causes us to fear the unknown. It can cause anything from panic attacks to heavy, shallow breathing, to headaches or stomach aches.

After everything we have been through, worrying over this new variant is understandable. However, it's important to remember that we are not in the same situation we were in 2020. We have vaccines and boosters now, we know a lot more about the virus.

It's hard not to let the media consume your thoughts with every negative story. Or read an article on Twitter or Facebook talking about scary situations because of Omicron. It's understandable. But, do these situations really apply to you?

One important thing to control anxiety over omicron is being realistic about what threats with this virus actually apply to you or your loved ones. When you are surrounded by stories of the negative, it's hard to not let your own imagination spiral out of control. Are you creating scenarios in your head that aren't really based on anything? Another classic symptom of anxiety is imagining the worst when there is no evidence of that actually happening.

Managing Anxiety Over Omicron

It would be nice if we could wave a wand and make all of the anxiety go away. To make life feel normal for all of humanity again. Unfortunately, we don't have that capability, but we do have the ability to manage anxiety.

You may be wondering how to manage anxiety over Omicron. Thankfully, there are many ways to help ease anxiousness to calm your mind and body down in the moment. Which, in turn, can help you feel less anxious in the future. Here are a few of our favorite ways to deal with anxiety symptoms.

Deep breathing exercises

When anxiety gets out of control, it can lead us to breathe heavier and more shallow. This sends a signal to our nervous system that something isn't right. You can counteract this by looking up YouTube videos on deep breathing exercises that can calm you down in that moment.

Don't Suppress Anxiety

We aren't saying we want you to feel anxious and to just go with it. Instead, what this means is don't try to ignore your anxiousness. By trying to suppress your anxiety and ignore it, it will actually make everything worse.

Reduce The Time You Spend On Certain Triggers

If your anxiety spikes because of the media, it may be helpful to just turn the channel. You should still stay informed, but once you start to feel anxious because of the news, it will be best to stop watching.

Talk To Someone

We are living in uncertain times. It's understandable that we are all feeling anxious over this new variant. While you may not be comfortable talking in person, call someone over the phone. Or FaceTime or text. With anxiety, it can be really beneficial to talk to someone who is supportive and understanding over your concerns.

If your personal world is filled with those who may not get it, you can reach out to a licensed therapist. Because of the pandemic, many therapists are now offering virtual therapy.

We are here to support you to help you manage your anxiety healthier. Reach out to us when you are ready.