Coping With Stress During COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a major effect on our lives. Many of us are facing challenges that can be stressful, overwhelming and cause strong emotions. Learn how you and your loved ones can cope with stress.
Get a COVID-19 vaccine and help your loved one get a vaccine, too. COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective.
Care for Yourself
Stress Can Cause:
Feelings of fear, anger, sadness, worry, numbness or frustration
Changes in appetite, energy, desires and interests
Difficulty concentrating and making decisions
Difficulty sleeping or nightmares
Physical reactions, such as headaches, body pains, stomach problems and skin rashes
Worsening of chronic health problems
Worsening of mental health conditions
Increased use of tobacco, alcohol and other substances
It is natural to feel stress, anxiety, grief and worry during the COVID-19 pandemic. Below are ways that you can help yourself, others, and your community manage stress.
Healthy Ways to Cope with Stress
Take breaks from watching, reading or listening to news stories, including those on social media. It’s good to be informed but hearing about the pandemic constantly can be upsetting. Consider limiting news to just a couple times a day and disconnecting from phone, television and computer screens for a while.
Take care of your body.
Take deep breaths, stretch, or meditate.
Try to eat healthy, well-balanced meals.
Exercise regularly.
Get plenty of sleep.
Avoid excessive alcohol, tobacco and substance use.
Continue with routine preventive measures (such as vaccinations, cancer screenings, etc.) as recommended by your healthcare provider.
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, try connecting online, through social media, or by phone or mail.
Alcohol and Substance Use
If you or someone you care about is starting to use alcohol or other substances, or is increasing their use during the COVID-19 pandemic, here are a few suggestions that may help:
Contact your healthcare provider.
Locate virtual treatment and recovery programs.
Take medicine as prescribed and continue your therapy, treatment or support appointments (in person or through telehealth services) when possible.