How Current Events Cause Worldwide Stress

COVID-19 has been on everyone’s minds since 2020 when the pandemic first hit the world by storm. Now, in 2022, the pandemic has had lasting effects on everyone, regardless of where we live. It is one of the few events in history that has caused worldwide trauma, not only in one country.

This worldwide effect on humanity has caused intense stress, fear, and uncertainty in our society. So, how does the pandemic cause worldwide trauma and stress? And how can we cure it? 

Worldwide Traumatic Events

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, every country in the world has had its own response to the many deaths, fear of infection, and the desperate scramble to find a cure. 

People have dealt with: 

• Losing young family members to the disease
• Witnessing hospitals become crowded with COVID-19 patients
• Not having space in the hospital for other illnesses/emergencies
• Government failure
• Economic issues
• Having to work in the midst of a pandemic
• Eviction 
• Losing support systems
• Mental health concerns
• Isolation
• Feeling stuck
• Health anxiety 

These events would be considered highly traumatic in a much less widespread situation. So why don’t we recognize this time as what it really is—worldwide trauma and intense stress. 

All of these events have caused people to have to deal with loss, fear, isolation, physical danger, and more. Many of these people have never experienced trauma before, so they do not know how to react to the pandemic. 

Luckily, there are still resources available to help in every country. 

What To Do About Current Events and the Trauma That Comes With It? 

There are several roads you can go down when it comes to treating the stress and fear that comes with this time in everyone’s lives. Here are some great suggestions. 

Find Routine in the Chaos

During a time when your regular routine has been disrupted by current events, it’s essential to create a new routine. Routine makes our nervous system feel safe, which means that changing your life up every single day is not going to cut it for your mind. 

A great way to start a new routine is to mark down everything you want to do on your calendar each day. Eat meals at the same hour each day, take a shower when you need to, listen to your body’s cues, and work a consistent schedule if possible. 

Protect Yourself and Your Community

It’s essential to continue to protect yourself physically. When stressed, your body is more prone to getting sick. Continue to keep up your hygiene habits, eat three meals a day, and try to eat healthily. Participate in some form of exercise. It doesn’t have to be heavy exercise. 

See a Counselor Online

Counselors are available during this time, both in-person and online. You can find thousands of trained online counselors who can speak to you over video chat, phone call, or chat. If you’ve been thinking about seeing someone, here’s your sign to try. 

Take Advantage of Available Resources 

Many communities and governments are offering extra resources during this time. Search for resources in your area. Financial assistance, rental assistance, and community aid outreach are available almost everywhere. 

Conclusion

We know how stressful current events have been. We’ve been through it too! That’s why it’s important to remember that you’re not alone, and taking some small steps to get yourself back on track can mean all the difference between struggling and surviving during these times. 

If you want to learn more about current events, check out BetterHelp’s page here: https://www.betterhelp.com/advice/current-events/.