The outbreak of COVID-19 may be stressful for many people
Fear and anxiety about a disease can be overwhelming and cause a wide range of thoughts, reactions and emotions.
Common Reactions
- Anxiety, worry
- Feelings of helplessness
- Social withdrawal
- Difficulty concentrating and sleeping
- Anger
- Race/Identity related stress
What we can do to manage and cope
While it is important to stay informed, there are also many things we can do to support and manage our well-being during such times:
- Get the facts. Stay informed with the latest health and campus information.
- Keep things in perspective. Limit worry and agitation by decreasing your COVID-19 information intake. Although you should get the facts and stay informed, remember to take a break and focus on the positive in your life or things you have control over.
- Stay Healthy. Adopt healthy hygienic habits: wash your hands with soap and water or hand sanitizer frequently, cover your mouth if you sneeze or cough, and avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Know the Signs of Stress. Seek Self-Help Resources. Know the behavioral, physical, emotional, and cognitive responses that are all common signs of anxiety and stress. You may notice some of them after you learn about an infectious disease outbreak.
- Seek Help. If your anxiety or worry is feeling overwhelming, seek additional help from our office. Please call (616) 234-4130 for assistance.