The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic may be stressful for people. Fear and anxiety about a new disease and what could happen can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions in adults and children. Public health actions, such as social distancing, can make people feel isolated and lonely and can increase stress and anxiety even if these actions are necessary to reduce the spread of COVID-19.
Stress during an infectious disease outbreak can sometimes cause the following:
- Fear and worry about your own health and the health of your loved ones, your
- financial situation or job, or loss of support services you rely on.
- Changes in sleep or eating patterns.
- Difficulty sleeping or concentrating.
- Worsening of chronic health problems.
- Worsening of mental health conditions.
- Increased use of tobacco, and/or alcohol and other substances.
To Take care of your mental health, here are some healthy ways to cope increased anxiety or stress
- Know where and how to get treatment and other support services and resources, including counseling or therapy (I offer in person or tele-health sessions).
- Take care of your emotional health. Taking care of your emotional health will help you think clearly and react to the urgent needs to protect yourself and your family.
- Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories, including those on social media. Hearing about the pandemic repeatedly can be upsetting.
- Take care of your body.
- Take deep breaths, stretch,
- Try to eat balanced & health meals.
- Exercise regularly.
- Get plenty of sleep.
- Avoid excessive alcohol use and drugs.
- Make time to unwind. Try to do some other activities you enjoy.
- Connect with others. Talk with people you trust about your concerns and how you are feeling.
- Connect with your community- or faith-based organizations. While social distancing measures are in place, consider connecting online, through social media, or by phone or mail.
Coping with stress in a healthy way will make you, the people you care about, and your community stronger.
Reach out to me if you’re feeling you need help coping through this pandemic. Mental Wellness 360 @ 503-351-8680.