Mental Health

Coping During COVID-19 

Over the past several months, we have moved from a health crisis to an ongoing global upending of our economic, health, and social structures. We are all affected by this trauma and, we can become overwhelmed, anxious or struggle to cope. This is perfectly normal, given the speed at which this situation has changed, the loss of routine and the amount of information available.

Every person handles these feelings differently and there are many things we can do to care for our own mental health and that of our loved ones during these difficult times, such as:

  • Avoid excessive exposure to media coverage. Find time to disconnect.
  • Continue to find ways to connect with others in your life, such as by phone or online.
  • Help those in need, especially those who may be homebound and rely on others.
  • Find an outlet, such as physical activity or creative or artistic activities.
  • Name your feelings and share them with someone you trust.
  • Avoid alcohol and drugs as coping mechanisms.
  • Keep regular sleep schedules.
  • Do things that release toxins such as mindfulness, deep breathing, practicing gratitude or listening to music.
  • Enjoy some time in the “vast, great outdoors.”

To find helpful tips and information about coping during COVID-19, follow JCPH’s blog series, Resilience [external link], for mental health and wellbeing information. Este blog también está disponible en Español [enlace externo].

Resources

Fact Sheet: Caring for your Mental Health During COVID-19

Mental Health Fact Sheet Flyer Opens in new window Preocupandonos de su salud mental durante el COVID-19 Opens in new window










Additional Resources

Coping with COVID-19: JCPH & Jefferson Center

On April 9, 2020 Jefferson County Public Health (JCPH) and Jefferson Center hosted a telephone town hall focused on maintaining mental health and well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic. JCPH’s Executive Director, Dr. Mark B. Johnson, provided a brief update on COVID-19 in Jefferson County. Jefferson Center’s CEO, Kiara Kuenzler, and several other experts shared mental health and wellness tips as well as local resources to support our community during this time. Community members also had an opportunity to ask questions and engage with the panel. 

Listen to an audio recording of the call [external link].