Coronavirus has spawned fears galore. Infection and death numbers soar. Layoffs and roller-coaster financial markets escalate apprehension. People wonder – Will I catch it? Will my loved ones? Will it kill us? Will I survive economically?

So, how many of these coronavirus fear factors apply to you?

• Illness
• Death
• Losing loved ones
• Job loss
• Financial ruin
• Hunger
• Lost opportunity
• Loneliness
• Boredom

Managing your fears

Can your fears be calmed? Here are 7 suggestions.

1. Wash your hands and keep social distance. For how long? Many voices seek your attention. I prefer to heed the scientists.

2. Adjust your spending. In light of the seriousness of the times, some planned-for purchases may not be as important as you’d thought.

3. Focus on friendships. During challenging times in my life, close friends helped me land on my feet and stay in the race. Maybe you can’t visit friends in person during the pandemic, but you can call, text or video chat, even if just to ask how they’re doing. The interaction can encourage you both.

4. Look on the bright side. Is there an advantage to your current situation that your pre-pandemic life lacked? Maybe more time with your family? A break from the rat race? Less traffic on the highways?

5. Exercise. Gyms may be closed, but you can still do calisthenics at home or go for a jog or a walk. The possibilities are endless.

6. Laugh. An ancient Jewish proverb says, “A joyful heart is good medicine, but a broken spirit dries up the bones.” Laughter may not always be the best medicine, but it often can be a great one. Look for humor in daily life, the news, family foibles, and more.

7. Establish or deepen your spiritual roots. Centuries ago, a Hebrew writer maintained, “God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. So, we will not fear when earthquakes come and the mountains crumble into the sea.”

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Jesus of Nazareth, a leader who experienced both intimate friendships and terrible loneliness, told His followers they would know grief, troubles and sorrow. He advised them to focus on their relationship with Him:

“I have told you all this so that you may have peace in Me. Here on earth, you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.”

Coming to faith in Him as a university student helped me resolve many of my life’s fears. I had a friend who would never leave me and divine assistance coping with both internal and external struggles. Death was no longer something to be feared.

Perhaps these ideas can get you thinking as you adjust to our brave new world. Stay safe.

Rusty Wright is an author and lecturer who has spoken on six continents.  He holds Bachelor of Science (psychology) and Master of Theology degrees from Duke and Oxford universities, respectively  www.RustyWright.com

Copyright © 2020 Rusty Wright