Emotional wellbeing during the COVID-19 outbreak

The Suicide Prevention Line has provided resources and information to help support the public’s emotional wellbeing during the COVID-19 outbreak 

Coping tips

People who are feeling emotional distress related to COVID-19 can take actions to help support themselves and others:

• Set a limit on media consumption, including social media and local or national news.
• Stay active. Make sure to get enough sleep and rest. Stay hydrated and avoid excessive amounts of caffeine or alcohol. Eat healthy foods when possible.
• Connect with loved ones and others who may be experiencing stress about the outbreak. Talk about your feelings and enjoy conversation unrelated to the outbreak.
• Get accurate health information from reputable sources.

Helpful resources

Reliable sources of information about COVID-19:

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• World Health Organization (WHO)

Other helpful resources to support your mental and emotional wellbeing:

• CDC’s Manage Anxiety and Stress page provides information on what stress can look like and tips to manage that stress.
• The National Child Traumatic Stress Network has a guide for parents and caregivers to help families cope.
• SAMHSA’s“Coping With Stress During Infectious Disease Outbreaks page outlines the signs of stress and steps you can take to alleviate it.
• SAMHSA’s Taking Care of Your Behavioral Health page provides tips for social distancing, quarantine and isolation during an infectious disease outbreak.
• SAMHSA’s Talking With Children: Tips for Caregivers, Parents, and Teachers During Infectious Disease Outbreaks page provides parents, caregivers and teachers with strategies for helping children manage their stress during an infectious disease outbreak.
• Vibrant Emotional Health’s Safe Space provides interactive coping tools to help users when they need it.

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