Protecting your Mental and Emotional Health from Coronavirus
Coronavirus effects more than just your physical health.
by Amy Rhodes, 4-H Educator, arhodes1@umd.edu
Facing any illness can be a stressful situation for our physical body, however our mental and emotional health is also put under stress during that time as well. Stress affects not just those who are sick but also those who are caregivers and those indirectly exposed to the situation. In this current state of the world we are all being challenged to face a different idea of illness in the form called a "pandemic". The Word Health Organization (WHO) defines a pandemic as a worldwide spread of a new disease facing populations with no immunity to combat the illness.
Stress and anxiety during the early stages of this pandemic is common and normal. This comes from having concerns for yourself, your loved ones, your personal security and future during a time of little or unknown circumstances. You can protect yourself and loved ones by being proactive about mental and emotional health, which is just as important as your physical health.
Through the resources researched the following ways to be proactive emerged:
Everyone experiences mental and emotional distress or even breakdowns, it is extremely common and even if you say "I've never had mental or emotional health problems" you actually have, no one is immune. However always remember the severity can be specific for each individual, therefore we all will react differently to each situation. This is your opportunity to empower yourself and also help remove the stigma related to mental and emotional health needs through education. The 4-H Program fully supports efforts in improving our overall health and wellbeing, with new efforts being directed at mental and emotional health for our children and families.
Resources for Coping with Stress and Anxiety related to the Pandemic