Page 24 - The Edge - Winter 2021

Here's How to Deal with Stress in a Pandemic and Why

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 23

Taylor added that the impact of chronic stress on the She added: “We can think of certain events as
brain can result in inadequate sleep, poor nutrition, stressful or we can think of them as learning tools.
a sedentary lifestyle, and short-term memory loss. Learn how to move forward, pivot in a certain way.
Eventually, it can weaken the immune system and When individuals experience adversity they also
lead to mental health issues, Taylor said. experience protective factors – they buffer the effects
of adversity. Without protective factors, individuals
“So how do we cope with stress?” Taylor asked. experience maladaptive coping mechanisms such as
Then she provided some answers – exercise, good substance abuse, loss of self worth or increase in risky
hygiene, move around during the day, find gratitude behavior.”
for everything you have, stay connected with the work
of others and have the support of others. Taylor listed what she called the seven “Cs” to
building resilience:
Many are finding it difficult to get outdoors amid
COVID. “It’s so difficult for us right now – people Control. When faced with a stressful situation, stay
feel isolated,” Taylor said, adding that there are many focused. Be more mindful of what’s going on. Does
benefits to getting outside. “You get a really good this situation deserve the reaction I am about to have?
perspective about the events going on around you.
You’re not only getting in the sun, you are able to Clarity. See clearly. When you can clearly see what
ground yourself – meditation or mindfulness. It’s a is happening, you can see what needs to happen next.
good tool. You could be taking a deep breath, closing You can see different possibilities. Be flexible.
your eyes. Take a moment to pause and notice what’s
going on around you.” Connection. Connect with others around you. Learn
from others how to be resilient.

“With all the things we’re dealing Competence. Draw from your experience. How do I
with now, I know we’re going to resolve this? Rather than, oh my gosh, what’s going
on? How do I solve this? Or can I solve it at all?
come back stronger.”
Courage. Figure out how to do it a little better and
She recommended starting to develop good habits, have courage to do it.
noting that it’s not always easy to break bad ones. “We
always have the ability to change how we think and Challenge. Focus on the most important goals and
how we respond,” Taylor said. “Our amazing brain is values. Never lose sight of that. It’s who you are and
working all the time, making new connections,” it helps you become more resilient.

Taylor talked about how resilience can help individuals Conditioned. Stay active, be mindful and, eat well.
maintain a work/life balance. “A lot of us are taking Everything else becomes easier.
work home with us,” she said. “It’s stressful. And, it’s
stressful to go into work. It’s really difficult knowing “A key takeaway,” Taylor said, “is that adversity can
when to shut it off – someone who can change lead to a variety of outcomes, but they are critical for
direction quickly, balance work and life, and leave building resiliency.”
work behind. It’s being able to maneuver when you
have a difficult situation, understanding that taking She offered a note of optimism: “With all the things
care of yourself is important and it’s practical. Self we’re dealing with now, I know we’re going to come
care is one of biggest things during the pandemic, back stronger.”
especially if you’re trying to take care of others. Try
to find ways to focus on ourselves.”

|
24 THE EDGE WINTER 2021