Copying With Anxiety In A Time Of COVID-19

 Illustrator: Kate Allen

It is not uncommon to experience anxiety and fear when hearing information about an infectious disease that is impacting individuals across the globe. Social distancing is also causing us all to temporarily change our daily routine, which can feel uncomfortable.

It is important to learn the facts related to the risks and speak to your doctor about any concerns you may have about your own health and COVID-19. If you are experiencing anxiety or fear related to COVID-19, these tips may help you feel more comfortable. 

It is normal to feel a range of emotions when you hear about COVID-19 in the news or in your social/family circle. Emotions may include:

• Depression

• Anxiety

• Fear
• Anger

Everything you feel and think is normal. However, at times our feelings keep us from living our day to day life in a way that works for us. This can happen when our emotions impact our ability to make decisions or carry on with our activities of daily life. 

If you ever feel overwhelmed by your feelings, there are actions you can take to begin to feel more in control. Options to help you deal with your feelings include:

• Hobbies

• Exercise

• Meditation

• Listening to music
• Take time outdoors
• Talking to your doctor
• Talk to your friends and family
• Talking to a mental health professional

• Taking a break from news media and social media

• Learning about COVID-19 and understanding the actual risks

Learning the facts about COVID-19 can be the most helpful way to help alleviate anxiety and fear. For official guidance, you can visit the Centers for Disease Control website and the Wyoming Information Sharing Platform (WISP).

Once you educate yourself, if you are still feeling anxiety, it may be helpful to get understanding and empathy from a mental health professional who is knowledgeable about anxiety and how to manage it.

For immediate and confidential support 24/7, you can call 211. If you see a mental health professional already, this would be a good time to call and speak to them about your thoughts and feelings.

Give yourself time and space to talk about how you feel anytime your thoughts and emotions become intrusive or uncomfortable. You always deserve the opportunity to explore what is on your mind, and help is always available by calling 211. 

Learning the facts about COVID-19, washing your hands, avoiding touching your face, and finding activities that distract you from virus news are all excellent ways to make yourself feel better. Know that there is a wealth of resources, education, and support available to you.

 Illustrator: Kate Allen

#Anxiety #YouAreStrong

#LifeIsPrecious #DuringATimeOfPlague #MentalHealthMatters