Tips for Staff

Fear and anxiety can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions in adults and children.

Stress 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

• Increased use of alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs

Mental health problems can present as physical complaints (such as headaches or stomachaches) or cognitive problems (such as having trouble concentrating). Taking care of yourself, your friends, and your family can help you cope with stress. Helping others cope with their stress can also make your community stronger.

• Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories, including social media.

• 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 alcohol and drugs.

• 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.

• Call your healthcare provider if stress gets in the way of your daily activities for several days in a row.

• People with preexisting mental health conditions should continue with their treatment and be aware of new or worsening symptoms. Additional information can be found at the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Disaster Preparedness.

• Stay home if you are sick. Consider connecting with loved ones by:

• Telephone

• Email

• Mailing letters or cards

• Text messages

• Video chat

• Social media

(Additional information and resources can be found at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/managing-stress-anxiety.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fprepare%2Fmanaging-stress-anxiety.html)