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Managing Stress and Anxiety About the Coronavirus

 

Psychological Health Tips

Understandably, you or those around you may have some questions and concerns about the Coronavirus. These concerns can cause anxiety and fear. We encourage you to use the following tips to manage stress or anxiety that can arise in the midst of uncertainty or fear about your or a loved ones’ safety.

  • Acknowledge reactions. Allow yourself time to reflect on what you are feeling and how you may be reacting to any fears and uncertainties of the future.
  • Maintain your day-to-day normal activities and social outlets. Resist withdrawing and isolating yourself from the support and caring that others can provide.
  • Seek accurate information from “The Center for Disease Control & Prevention” and limit exposure to social media and news reports that provide no new information.
  • Pay attention to positive news instead of only focusing on negative and fear-producing reports.
  • Follow the protection and prevention tips given by medical professionals such as Health Services here on campus, national medical authorities and your own medical doctor.
  • Practice calming rituals: Stay grounded in the present moment, which can help you maintain an internal sense of stability and balance when outside events feel threatening.
  • Seek supports & use campus resources. Reach out to friends and family and learn about campus resources available. If you or someone you know has high distress that does not seem to be lessening, talk about it with others or come to the counseling center. Your campus community is here to help!

WCU’s Counseling & Psychological Services staff are aware that fear and anxiety can lead to bias, discrimination, and hatred, and we are committed to combating that. One consideration we wish to recommend is to practice mutual trust and respect with other students and members of our community. Please use the following guidelines for avoiding stigmatizing behaviors.

  • Be aware of your behavior or attitude change towards others from another country
  • Avoid generalizing anyone who is sick as potentially having the Coronavirus

Examine any irrational or rigid thoughts that can exist when there is uncertainty.

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