The Importance of Maintaining Structure and Routine During Stressful Times PART ONE

• Even if you don't typically thrive on a strict schedule, having a routine can be helpful in times of unpredictability, uncertainty, and stress.
• Implementing a structure to your day can give you a sense of control. It can also improve your focus, organization, and productivity.
• Having a routine is about more than just your day-to-day responsibilities and your work—don't forget to make time for self-care.

Some people love to have a solid daily routine, while others shudder at the thought of having a predictable schedule. During times of great stress, however, maintaining structure and routine can help you feel more organized and in control.

Many people are either working from home or faced with the prospect of an unknown period of unemployment. Those working at home may quickly discover that the constant isolation and lack of a normal schedule can be mentally taxing. 

A lack of structure and routine can actually exacerbate feelings of distress and make you pay more attention to the source of your problems. As Rachel Goldman, PhD, a psychologist and clinical assistant professor at the NYU School of Medicine, explains: “If people don't have structure and are sitting around with less to focus on, then they also probably will find themselves thinking about the stressful situation more, which can also lead to additional stress and anxiety."

One way to get out of this cycle that promotes ruminating over the source of your stress is to maintain some structure and routine throughout your day.

The Benefits of Having a Routine

Research has consistently shown that routines can play an important role in mental health.1 One study, for example, found that routines could help people better manage stress and anxiety.2 

Having a regular routine can help you:

• Lower stress levels
• Form good daily habits
• Take better care of your health
• Feel more productive
• Feel more focused

Getting necessary tasks out of the way can also help you find more time for healthy behaviors like exercise and leave you more time to enjoy fun activities and hobbies. 

TO BE CONTINUED. . .