Emotional Wellbeing During the COVID-19 Outbreak
What is Coronavirus (COVID-19)?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have described the coronavirus, or COVID-19, as an outbreak of respiratory disease caused by a novel (new) coronavirus that has now been detected in more than 100 locations internationally, including in the United States. The virus has been named “SARS-CoV-2” and the disease it causes has been named “coronavirus disease 2019” (abbreviated “COVID-19”). You can read more about COVID-19 on the CDC’s “Situation Summary” page. Infectious disease outbreaks such as COVID-19, as well as other public health events, can cause emotional distress and anxiety. Feeling anxious, confused, overwhelmed or powerless is common during an infectious disease outbreak, especially in the face of a virus with which the general public may be unfamiliar. These feelings of distress and anxiety can occur even if you are not at high risk of getting sick.
Coping Tips
People that are feeling emotional distress related to COVID-19 can take actions to help support themselves and others.
– Set a limit on media consumption, including social media, local or national news.
– Stay active. Make sure to get enough sleep and rest. Stay hydrated and avoid excessive amounts of caffeine or alcohol. Eat healthy foods when possible.
– Connect with loved ones and others who may be experiencing stress about the outbreak. Talk about your feelings and enjoy conversation unrelated to the outbreak.
– Get accurate health information from reputable sources. For health information about COVID-19, please contact the Centers for Disease Control at cdc.gov, your local healthcare provider, or your
local 211 and 311 services, if available.
local 211 and 311 services, if available.
– The national Disaster Distress Helpline is available to anyone experiencing emotional distress related to COVID-19. Call 1-800-985-5990 or text TalkWithUs to 66746 to speak to a caring counselor.
– If you’re experiencing emotional distress related to COVID-19, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline or your local crisis line.
– For coping tools and resources, visit the Lifeline website at suicidepreventionlifeline.org or Vibrant Emotional Health’s Safe Space at vibrant.org/safespace.
– The National Domestic Violence Hotline has highly trained advocates available 24/7 to ensure services and continue to support survivors.
Helpful Resources
Reliable sources of information about COVID-19:
– Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
– World Health Organization (WHO)
Other Helpful Resources to Support Your Mental and Emotional Wellbeing:
Other Helpful Resources to Support Your Mental and Emotional Wellbeing:
– CDC’s “Manage Anxiety and Stress”page provides what stress can look like and tips to manage that stress.
– The National Child Traumatic Stress Network has a guide for parents and caregivers to help families cope with the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19).
– Mental Health America has compiled a range of resources and information on their “Mental Health and COVID-19” page.