Lower Your Stress & Give Your Immune System A Much-Needed Boost!

By Contributing Author, Kate Harveston

It’s not easy to feel completely stress-free when you’re concerned about you and your loved ones’ health. However, it’s essential to remain calm — for both your physical and mental well-being. When you’re at peace, your immune system can fight off a host of infections. In the midst of COVID-19, it’s vital to remain calm.

How Does Stress Impact the Body?

When you’re anxious, it’s because there’s an inability to cope. When asked to present in front of a large audience, you probably feel nervous and afraid — especially if you’ve never taken on a similar project. In any case, stress becomes commonplace when you don’t know what to expect. 

1. Mental Health

Stress makes us feel overwhelmed and frustrated. We’re far too focused on our anxiety, so daily tasks and personal relationships become difficult to manage. Some individuals lash out at others or feel depressed or angry. A lot of negative actions arise from stress. 

2. Physical Health

Aside from mental effects, these emotions can impact how our bodies operate. When someone’s stressed, their immune system can take a hit.

Our immune systems consist of cells, proteins and tissues that work to eradicate infections. While acute stress triggers our “fight or flight” response, chronic stress that lasts for days and weeks may lead to serious consequences down the line.

Cortisol works to limit inflammation within the immune system, but if there’s too much, a reverse effect can happen. Similarly, stress decreases the number of white blood cells in your body.

Because stress can influence your body, it’s important to address it for the sake of your health.

Manage Your Stress Levels

Anxiety shows itself in a few different forms, so not every person feels the same way.

That said, if you’ve experienced any noticeable symptoms, it’s time to find a solution. Manage your stress levels so you can power through COVID-19.

1. Ignore Unreliable Headlines

These days, information spreads like wildfire. Unfortunately, those articles and charts you see on social media aren’t always accurate.

These bits of false data can cause unnecessary fear. That’s why you need to stick with reliable sources. If you want to learn about COVID-19, consult websites for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization. 

2. Practice Self-Care

This point may seem obvious, but it’s essential to remember self-care — and that includes preventive actions. These steps include ways to maintain your health so you’re not susceptible to illnesses like influenza.

When you eat a healthy diet and exercise throughout the week, you’ll be less likely to get sick. Get screened for diseases, and be sure to stay updated on your immunizations.

3. Redirect Energy

It’s crucial to stay informed, but too much negative news isn’t great for you. Why not direct your energy elsewhere?

Get your household together and play a game of cards. Silence your phone and read a few books. You could even organize items for donation. If you can distract yourself, you won’t feel so stressed.

4. Formulate a Plan

You may not know what to expect, but that doesn’t mean you can’t prepare.

• Make sure you and your family refill any necessary prescriptions.
• Create a list that details emergency contacts and medical professionals.
• Restock your pantry — but don’t hoard any items.

Everyone should be able to do the same for their loved ones. Take time to formulate the right plan for your household.

5. Talk to Others

Even if you can’t hang out with your friends in person, there’s another way to maintain social practices. Pick up the phone and have a conversation with your mom.

Set up a video chat so you can communicate with everyone all at once. Technology can help us bridge the gap. You may need to distance yourself physically, but you can still stay in touch.

Use these tips to ease your nerves. When you’re calm and collected, your body can better operate as it’s intended. 

Go Stress-Free to Be as Healthy as Possible

The current COVID-19 outbreak, like other remarkable events, can cause symptoms of stress and anxiety. It’s essential to take of yourself so you don’t become sick.

Consider these suggestions to become more stress-free — and give your immune system a much-needed boost!