As scary as the time we are living in can be, it is important to find positive ways to deal with our emotions. With the outbreak of COVID-19, there has been a substantial increase in mental health disorder diagnoses, and people with pre-existing mental health conditions may be experiencing worsened symptoms. 

There are many positive ways to cope with unwanted emotions such as fear and anxiety about COVID-19. Simply turning off news outlets such as the television or social media can help to deal with anxiety. Constantly being reminded of the pandemic can be upsetting. Another way to reduce stress in yourself is to talk to someone. Whether it be to your parents, siblings, or a friend (via FaceTime of course); talking to someone you trust about your feelings is always an option to relieve your mind of stress and worry.

Everyone copes with stress and anxiety differently. What works for you, may not work for someone else. It is important to try different things when you are looking to improve your mental health. Don’t give up after one thing doesn’t work for you. Another way to improve your mental health, especially during a pandemic where you aren’t leaving your house as much, is to set up an exercise routine. According to www.health.harvard.edu, “Exercise reduces levels of the body’s stress hormones, such as adrenaline and cortisol. It also stimulates the production of endorphins, chemicals in the brain that are the body’s natural painkillers and mood elevators.” 

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC)  has released an entire page about coping with stress during a pandemic. It is very reassuring to see that a large non-profit organization such as the CDC is raising awareness about mental health during a time like this. 

It is important to remember that your mental health isn’t only important during a pandemic. It is always important to work on improving your mental health even when situations are more “normal.”