Managing Stress in a Crisis
By Connie Hogue, Director of Human Resources and Safety When you hear, read or watch news about an outbreak of an infectious disease, you may feel anxious and show signs of stress. These signs of stress are normal. The best thing you can do for yourself and your loved ones is to know the signs of stress and when to get help.
Emotions: • • • • • • •
Being anxious or fearful. Feeling depressed. Feeling guilty. Feeling angry. Feeling heroic, euphoric, or invulnerable. Not caring about anything. Feeling overwhelmed by sadness.
Thinking: • • • •
Connie Hogue
Know the Signs Here is a list of the behavioral, physical, emotional and cognitive responses that are all common signs of anxiety and stress.
Keep Things in Perspective Be sure to make time away to focus on things in your life that are going well and that you can control.
Behavior: • • • • • • •
An increase or decrease in your energy and activity levels. An increase in your alcohol, tobacco use, or use of illegal drugs. Having trouble relaxing or sleeping. Wanting to be alone most of the time. Blaming other people for everything. Having difficulty communicating or listening. Having difficulty giving or accepting help.
Body: • • • • • •
Having trouble remembering things. Feeling confused. Having trouble thinking clearly and concentrating. Having difficulty making decisions.
Having stomachaches. Having headaches and other pains. Losing your appetite or eating too much. Sweating or having chills. Getting tremors or muscle twitches. Being easily startled.
Keep Yourself Healthy • • • • •
Eat healthy foods, and drink water. Avoid excessive amounts of caffeine and alcohol. Do not use tobacco or illegal drugs. Get enough sleep and rest. Get physical exercise.
Ways to cope with stress Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories, including social media. Hearing about the pandemic repeatedly can be upsetting.
The bottom line Taking care of yourself, your friends, and your family can help you cope with stress. Helping others cope with their stress can also make our communities stronger.
Source: CDC.gov/coronavirus
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