Over the past few weeks since the outbreak of the Coronavirus, fear and anxiety have been on a high. Our social media and the news have been flooded with stories related to the Coronavirus, and how ‘grim’ the situation is, which only contributed to its sharp incline.

Otherwise, rational people act erratically and irrationally by stockpiling non-essential items such as toilet paper, even if it means risking infection by standing in queues for hours.

The high levels of fear and anxiety that people have been experiencing are directly caused by the uncertainty associated with the virus and the potential effects it could have on our livelihoods.

The fact that uncertainty can cause fear, panic, and anxiety is because at the root the need for certainty is based on the need to feel in control. When we are unsure of what our future looks like when we are unsure of how long we will be in lockdown, it highlights the lack of control we have over our lives which gives rise to fear and anxiety.

But it’s important to understand what the need for control is. We human beings are never in complete control of our lives; it is instead the sense of control that gives us peace of mind. This virus is a perfect example. Before its breakout, I am sure many of you would say that you were in control of your life and might even have had plans for Easter, or some goals you wanted to achieve. But everything changed in a moment and proved that we are not in complete control. Yes, this might be a very rare happening, but everyday people have plans for ‘tomorrow’ yet don’t make it to ‘tomorrow’.

This is not to paint a grim picture of life, but to make us understand that there will always be things outside of our control, making peace with this fact will allow you to become more grateful and mindful of the moment.

1. Challenges are Part of Human Life.

I am yet to meet a person who hasn’t faced any form of challenges. Challenges come in different forms, such as failing a test, quitting a job and starting a business, or deciding to be a great hands-on parent while working two jobs to support your kids.

Whatever the challenge you faced, you have made it through it. Even though things seemed really tough at the moment, and you didn’t know how you would make it through – but you did.

So a great way to develop greater faith is to look back at the trying and challenging times that you faced, and recall the thoughts and emotions you had. Yes, you survived challenging times before and you will again.