The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recently updated its website to include a page on Daily Life and Coping in light of the global pandemic caused by the COVID-19 virus.

The new page features a section, titled Stress and Coping, that highlights skills and resources for people struggling during this crisis. On this page, a multitude of resources and information about how to cope with stress or feelings of loneliness while being stuck at home are available. Feelings of depression, anxiety, loneliness, and anger are not uncommon when an individual is isolated or feels a lack of social support.

Certain groups of people are at a higher risk of suffering psychologically from social distancing and the lack of social interactions it has caused. Those at higher risk include the following: women, health care workers, those who have suffered or are suffering from any mental illnesses, and young adults.

High school students make-up almost half of this demographic, and with the cancellation of school and various activities, many students may be struggling during this time. For example, all sports teams have had their seasons cut short and athletes who used to be active are now having to be indoors often. In addition, some athletes may be experiencing the absence of community and team effort, which can result in an emotional strain.

Reaching out to trusted friends, family, or proper health physicians as well as practicing self-care are some of the many ways that can be used to upkeep people’s mental health. Activities such as exercising, going for a walk, listening to music, or eating healthy food can boost positive thinking and reduce stress, anxiety, depression, and other issues. There are also many 24/7 hotlines available to the general public, free of charge.

To fight feelings of loneliness in the absence of a school community, people can engage in healthy and safe activities that also comply with social distancing. For a list of some of these activities, click the link provided here.

In addition, it is important to remain protected when carrying out certain tasks that are necessary, such as grocery shopping. When going out to buy food, and other household items, the CDC and other organizations are recommending that people wear any type of facial covering and gloves.

Due to the shortage of medical masks right now, many citizens have been making their own homemade face coverings. The CDC provides instructions on how to do so in order to help reduce the rapid spread of the virus.