Six Tips for Nurses Coping With the COVID-19 Pandemic

Posted almost 4 years ago

If you are feeling anxious and stressed about the COVID-19 pandemic, you are not alone – many nurses are experiencing higher than normal stress and anxiety levels right now. These six tips for coping with COVID-19 were developed by Bernadette Melnyk, PhD, RN, CPNP/PMHNP, FAANP, FNAP, FAAN, and Healthy Nurse, Healthy Nation™.

  1. Breathe deeply: Take five slow deep breaths right now and feel yourself calming down.
  2. Practice staying in the present moment: Worrying will not change or help the situation; be here now; stay mindful. 
  3. Use cognitive-behavioral skills: Remember, how you think affects how you feel and how you behave. If you are having a negative thought (e.g., "I might get the COVID-19 virus."), change it to a positive (e.g., "I will stay healthy by practicing good infection control practices."). Repeat these and other positive thinking statements several times a day.
  4. Read 3 to 5 minutes in a positive thinking book every day before starting work. Positivity will serve as a shield against stress and worry.
  5. Stay active: Physical activity can help relieve stress. Even daily short walks can help.
  6. Talk to someone: Tell a family member or friend how you are feeling. Get help if your stress and anxiety is interfering with your functioning.
Learn more on the HNHN blog.