Nature endowed us with a binary approach to danger. Our two options are either cut and run or make a stand. Our mortal threats have changed down the years from our hunter-gatherer days. Yet we can still detect a shadow of them, in our mental flight or fight responses to COVID-19.
What’s Driving Our Mental Fight or Flight Responses to COVID-19
Nathan Mesnikoff is chaplain at UCHealth Memorial Hospital in Colorado Springs. There, he helps patients and their families come to terms with trauma associated with illness and serious injuries. He says a fight or flight situation does not only cause a physical reaction. We have mental flight or fight responses too.
Our psychological reaction to the virus suppresses our logic center, as our fear center assumes control. We no longer make rational decisions. Our cares and anxiety cause us to do irrational things like hoarding a six month supply of toilet paper.
Nathan Mesnikoff’s Thoughts on Outwitting the Fear Center
Acknowledge you are living through extraordinary times, and take it easy all round he says. Control your mental flight or fight responses to COVID-19 by pausing and take deep breaths when you feel stressed. Resolve to check news and social media less frequently.
Do your research on authority sites like Centers for Disease Control and Prevention CDC. Ignore people trying to turn the crisis to their personal advantage. Give your immune system a tonic of good sleep, good food, and sensible exercise. Listen to music. Feed your soul with meditation. Do something good for someone else.
Remain physically distant from people you love, but stay emotionally close. Use technology, or chat at a safe distance. Look for things for which you can be grateful, and admire stunning views around you. Nature is continuing to function as ever. The world beyond is unfolding as it should.
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Preview Image: Derbyshire Peak District of England
