Because of COVID-19 pandemic and the stay-at-home-order, schools are closed and classes have transitioned online. A lot of students now study at home. It's a big adjustment. For some of us, it can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions. If you feel worried, stressed, socially isolated, and maybe anxious amidst the uncertainty. You are not alone.

According to CDC, stress during an infectious disease outbreak can include:

• Fear and worry about your own health and the health of your loved ones
• Changes in sleep or eating patterns
• Difficulty sleeping or concentrating
• Worsening of chronic health problems
• Worsening of mental health conditions

Symptoms to look for: 

• Difficulty concentrating
• Fatigue/Sleep disturbances
• Paranoia and fear
• Irritability and moodiness
• High/Low school performance
• Generalized worry and apprehension
• Thinking about the worst

Some suggestions from the World Health Organization: Minimize watching, reading or listening to news about COVID-19 that causes you to feel anxious or distressed; seek information only from trusted sources and mainly so that you can take practical steps to prepare your plans and protect yourself and loved ones. Seek information updates at specific times during the day, once or twice. The sudden and near-constant stream of news reports about an outbreak can cause anyone to feel worried. Get the facts; not rumors or misinformation. Gather information at regular intervals from the WHO website and local health authority platforms in order to help you distinguish facts from rumors. Facts can help to minimize fears. 

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Other helpful ideas

• • • • • • Animals - Pet an animal, walk a dog, listen to the birds
          • Be active - Use an exercise video at home
          • Music - Listen to music you like, sing a song
          • Connect with people - Contact a friend, call you loved ones
          • Read - Read a favorite book

Also, the governor announced a free mental health hotline called "Call4Calm" for COIVD 19. Residents can text TALK to 552020. For Spanish, text HABLAR to 552020. Once you text this hotline, you will receive a call from a licensed counselor within 24 hours.

Lastly, UHP is here for you. Feel free to reach out to you if you need any help or just need to talk to someone.

More resources:

Living with Worry and Anxiety Amidst Global Uncertainty

Mental health and psychosocial considerations during the COVID-19 outbreak

COVID-19 Resource and Information Guide

CDC - Stress and Coping