Fear and anxiety are a normal response to what's happening locally and nationally due to the Coronavirus, or COVID-19.
WEMU's Lisa Barry talks with University of Michigan professor in the departments of Psychology and Psychiatry, and founder of "Mood Lifters," Dr. Patricia Deldinabout what to expect and ways to cope in light of those emotions most everyone is experiencing.
Fear and anxiety around the coronavirus situation is normal for most people, but it can especially be hard for those already experiencing mental health concerns. Still, Dr. Deldin says you should realize anxiety is a normal part of this, so don’t overreact to your own anxiety and don’t be afraid of the fear because, again, it is normal.
Deldin's recommendations to handle anxiety include:
- Attending to self care and self compassion.
- Eating healthy and exercising.
- Staying informed, but also staying in touch with loved ones and friends.
- Staying connected with other people through social media and phone calls and try not to be alone.
- Remaining mindful of keeping and maintaining social relationships as much as possible.
- Trying to stay connected socially in other ways.
If you still feel overwhelmed by your anxiety, it's best to contact your health care provider.
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— Lisa Barry is the host of All Things Considered on WEMU. You can contact Lisa at 734.487.3363, on Twitter @LisaWEMU, or email her at lbarryma@emich.edu