We know, times are hard! For many of us, COVID-19 has halted our vacation plans, disrupted our routines, and made our day-to-day activities challenging. The feelings of stress, anxiousness, and restlessness are normal. Coping with stress in a healthy way will make you, the people you care about, and your social community stronger.

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends these healthy ways to cope with stress.

• Know what to do if you are sick and are concerned about COVID-19. Contact a health professional before you start any self-treatment for COVID-19.
• Know where and how to get treatment and other support services and resources, including counseling or therapy (in person or through telehealth services).
• Take care of your emotional health. Taking care of your emotional health will help you think clearly and react to the urgent needs to protect yourself and your family.
• Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories, including those on social media. Hearing about the pandemic repeatedly can be upsetting.
• Take care of your body.
• Practice deep breathing, stretching, and meditating.
• Try to eat healthy, well-balanced meals.
• Exercise regularly.
• Get plenty of sleep.
• Avoid excessive alcohol and drug use.
• 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.
• Engage with your community- or faith-based organizations. While social distancing

For additional information on this topic, or to learn more about available resources, you can visit the CDC.