Dealing with stress, anxiety and mental health at any time can be stressful, but doing so during a pandemic can be even more overwhelming! There are certain public health actions you can take (like proper social distancing) that may reduce your feelings of anxiety but also may come with unintended consequences (for example, you might find yourself feeling lonely and isolated, which can further increase your stress).

It’s important that you find healthy ways to deal with your stress so that it doesn’t turn into a chronic problem. If you realize that you or someone you love is suffering from severe symptoms, such as excessive worry and fear about your own health or the health of your loved ones, stress over potential or actual job loss, or changes in sleep and eating patterns, you might want to reach out for help.

Other signs of a serious mental health problem include difficulty concentrating or sleeping, worsening of chronic physical or mental health problems, and increased use of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs.

Take care of yourself, and do what you can to alleviate your short- and long term stress. Remember to watch out for the health and wellbeing of those around you and don’t hesitate to reach for help if necessary.