Anxiety and Stress Management related to COVID-19
The outbreak of Coronavirus (COVID-19) impacts not only our physical health but also emotional health. Young children, parents with children, elderlies, individuals with preexisting mental health & addiction, and medical/ health care professionals may respond to the stress more strongly. Here is some information regarding anxiety and stress management related to COVID-19, provided by Center of Diseased Control and Prevention (CDC) and Ohio Department of Health.
Symptoms of Anxiety and Stress
- Feeling of numbness, disbelief, anxiety, fear, hopelessness, and helplessness
- Changes in appetite, energy, and activity levels
- Difficulty concentrating and / or sleeping
- Worsening of chronic health / mental health problems
- Physical reactions such as headaches, body pains, and stomach problems
- Increased use of alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs
- Anger or short temper
*It is important to recognize that some children and teens respond to stress differently from adults. Please read more information about children’s anxiety and stress in “For Children and Parents” section.
Ways to Cope with Strong Feelings, Anxiety, and Stress Related to COVID-19
- Obtain accurate information from trusted source and take breaks from the media/ news
Click here – (Ohio Department of Health)
Click here – (Ohio Department of Mental Health & Addiction Services)
Click here – (Center for Disease Control and Prevention)
- Take care of your physical and mental health by unwinding, eating healthy, engaging in activities, getting enough sleep, and avoiding alcohol and drugs
- Establish a routine and schedule to follow through your day
- Practice meditation and mindfulness
- Connect and talk with others for support
- Continue with your treatment plan if you have a mental health problem and follow up with your provider
- Remember that distress, anxiety, fear, and strong emotions are normal in times of crisis
- Contact health care/ behavioral health care provider to seek additional assistance
Resources on Anxiety and Stress related to COVID-19 Information
Center for Disease Control and Prevention: Click here
Ohio Department of Health: Click here
National institute of Mental Health: Click here